NYPD’s Secular Response to Church Attacks Ignores Spiritual Warfare
The Catholic News Agency reports that the New York Police Department (NYPD) will increase patrols at Staten Island churches following several criminal incidents, including a violent disruption during Mass at St. Ann’s Church on January 9, 2026, which injured two officers. NYPD Staten Island Borough Commander Melissa Eger dismissed religious motivation, calling the crimes “acts of opportunism and theft.” State Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton demanded heightened security, while “Fr.” Jacob Thumma—pastor of the affected parishes—attributed the violence to insufficient mental health resources, urging “compassionate care” for the perpetrator.