News

Westport police make arrest in church break-in, vandalism

WESTPORT, Mass. (MyFoxBoston.com) – A Taunton man was arrested Saturday in connection with a break-in and vandalism at a Westport church.

Martin Cutler, 29, is scheduled to be arraigned Monday in Fall River District Court. He is charged with a hate crime and several other charges, including breaking and entering, and desecration of a place of worship.

Police said Cutler broke into St. John the Baptist Church between March 1 and March 2 and stole some church items. According to police, Cutler also urinated into the holy water.

Police said additional suspects will face criminal charges as the investigation continues.

"The parishioners have been praying for closure of these horrible events and for a spirit of Christian forgiveness for the profanation of the church and the eucharist," the Rev. Leonard Hindsley said in a statement.