ST. LOUIS — The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department is investigating more than 30 property crime incidents at churches across the city since July 1, 2026, including thefts and attempted thefts involving air-conditioning units, copper, water meters, pumps and other items that may have monetary or scrap value, the department said Aug. 31, 2026.
The incidents have affected 30 different houses of worship in St. Louis Metropolitan Police Districts 4, 5 and 6, with several locations targeted more than once. Detectives are working to determine whether any of the cases are connected.
Police said the affected properties include active churches serving congregations as well as churches that remain out of use after sustaining damage from the May 2025 tornado.
“Some of these congregations are still recovering from the devastation of the tornado, and now they are being victimized again,” Chief of Police Robert J. Tracy said. “We know how important these churches are to the neighborhoods they serve. Our officers and detectives are paying close attention to this pattern; we are putting additional resources into these areas, and we are asking the community to help us look out for these properties and for one another.”
Police said an increase in such crimes emerged earlier this summer, prompting the department to meet with members of the clergy to discuss the incidents, share prevention information and address concerns. Investigators have not identified a specific pattern, but police said thieves have targeted victims at any hour of the day.
In response to the renewed activity, the department is deploying additional patrol resources in the affected areas. Police said that includes increased visibility from officers in marked patrol SUVs, additional undercover officers working to identify and apprehend those responsible, and the use of mobile camera trailer systems.
The department said detectives are actively investigating the incidents, reviewing available evidence and monitoring crime trends across the city to determine whether any cases are connected and to direct resources where needed.
Police said addressing the incidents will require coordination across the criminal justice system. The department said it is working with the Circuit Attorney’s Office, the judicial branch and other criminal justice partners as the investigations move forward.
The department is encouraging churches and other faith communities to take steps to protect their properties. Police said exterior areas should be well-lit when possible, doors, gates and other access points should be secured, and security cameras should be operational and positioned to capture activity around buildings and equipment. Congregations may also consider securing or restricting access to exterior air-conditioning units, utility equipment and other items that could be targeted for scrap value.
Residents, congregations and businesses are asked to remain vigilant and look out for properties in their neighborhoods, including churches that may be temporarily vacant or undergoing repairs. Police said anyone who sees suspicious or potentially criminal activity should call 911 and should not approach or confront anyone involved.
Anyone with information that may assist investigators is asked to contact a North Patrol detective at 314-444-0001.
Tips also can be emailed to tips@slmpd.org.
