KENLY – Thanks to tips from the public, the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office has identified and charged a suspect in connection with an incident at a Kenly-area church.
Michael Bruce Culligan of Hales Road, Kenly was arrested May 12 and charged with misdemeanor breaking and entering. Culligan is accused of breaking into Holly Springs Freewill Baptist Church at 80 Beulahtown Road around 4:30pm May 5.
According to the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, Culligan went to the church and banged on a side door several times. He then climbed a flight of starts that is a fire escape. Once at the top he entered a door to get inside. He startled a woman and her daughter who were inside cleaning.
The women asked him to leave. Instead of leaving through an entry door, Culligan allegedly went back to the top of the church and exited through the fire escape.
The 67 year-old man was released after posting a $1,500 bond.
Motive?
Needed a hymnal for a home sing-along
This is ridiculous. A 67 year old ordained minister and deacon of 20 years moved to a new town and is looking for a new church close to home. His motive….looking for info on their Bible study. How about arresting real criminals instead of elderly men looking for a new church. The article fails to mention the door at the top of the fire escape was open. So much for “if you can read this, you’re invited”.
I’ve known Mike and his family for almost 30 years. Mike would not hurt anyone, would never steal, is kind and always wanting to help others. He loves the Lord and he was looking for a Bible Study and this church near his new home. This is so sad and an attack that I believe will be a testimony thru this test.