Min. Dale Edwards Executive Director Call and Post
CLEVELAND — In a shocking breach of sanctuary, worshippers at Olivet Institutional Baptist Church and at least two other Cleveland congregations discovered over 20 vehicles broken into after Sunday morning services.
According to Cleveland Police, the car break-ins took place while parishioners were inside worshipping — a brazen crime targeting what should have been a safe, sacred space.
What Happened
- At Olivet Institutional Baptist Church, members returned to find shattered glass throughout the parking lot and multiple vehicles vandalized.
- According to the police, the thefts occurred across at least three different church parking lots, not limited to Olivet.
- Two teenagers — ages 15 and 16 — were taken into custody in connection with the break-ins following a short pursuit, while a third suspect remains at large.
Pastor Dr. Jawanza Karriem Colvin of Olivet expressed his dismay on social media, calling the incident “disturbing.” He emphasized Olivet’s commitment to providing a secure environment “both within and outside our walls” and pledged to support congregants whose property was violated.
The church is also exploring ways to improve security — including more robust lighting, increased surveillance, and volunteer parking-lot monitors.
Community & Law Enforcement Reaction
Sgt. Freddy Diaz of the Cleveland Division of Police publicly condemned the thieves’ audacity: “They’re going to a sacred property … to commit these crimes.” He noted that the department’s Real Time Crime Center was instrumental in tracking down the suspects.
Cleveland City Council President Blaine Griffin weighed in, calling for stronger consequences even when suspects are juveniles. “If you break the law, you need to be held accountable,” he stated.
Many congregants described the aftermath as heartbreaking. “People were really upset. They were crying in the parking lot,” one worshipper said of the scene outside Olivet. Some voiced frustration that even places of spiritual refuge are not spared from the city’s property crime surge.
Still, others vowed not to let fear drive them away. “We all have to come together … go back to church and stand strong together,” said one member.
What’s Next
- Church leadership has announced meetings with neighborhood groups and law enforcement to consider beefing up security.
- Police are continuing their investigation, urging anyone with information or dashcam footage from Sunday morning to come forward.
- City officials are being pressed for long-term strategies to safeguard houses of worship — emphasizing that no community should feel unsafe just for going to church.
The Call & Post will continue to cover this developing story as parishioners, city leaders, and law enforcement confront the reality that their sacred spaces are under threat — and what must be done to protect them.
