Police Take 2 Reports of People 'Scoping Out' Churches

TROY, MI – Troy police took two recent incidents of individuals “scoping out” local churches, both Christian denominations, that will be among the topics discussed at an upcoming presentation on church security with local clergy and house of worship security officials.

The incidents occurred Dec. 12 and Jan. 3. Both of the churches are Christian denominations, Sgt. Meghan Lehman, Troy police public information officer, told Patch.

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In the first incident, a group of individuals in an unoccupied church auditorium asked security staff questions about entrances to the building, the placement of security cameras and the number of people who attend services.

In the second, two males were observed videotaping both the interior and exterior of the building. When approached by church security personnel, they didn’t give a reason for their visit but left without incident.

Police investigated both incidents are have identified the individuals involved, who are cooperating with investigators. Police said that although their actions many have appeared unusual or suspicious, there’s no indication their intent was violent or ciminal in nature.

“Those two incidents aren’t too out of the ordinary,” Lehman told Patch, “but due to the fact they were reported, we wanted to put it out there.

“We investigate these reports and take them seriously, but it’s probably not something to be too concerned about,” she said.

The house of worship security group has been meeting for about two years after various denominations asked for police assistance in making their facilities safer.

“Churches are often targets for larcenies and people looking for scam target,” Lehman said.

The house of worship security program for security volunteers, staff and clergy will be held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 26. Location details and other information are available by contacting Officer Russell Barrows at (248) 680-7223 or barrowsrw@troymi.gov.