Kentucky State Police arrested a California man Monday afternoon, after finding him inside a local church attempting to set it on
fire. At 4:30 p.m., Kentucky State Police troopers responded to Macedonia Church in Lyon County to investigate reports of a suspicious person. A man was located inside the church upon officers’ arrival.
Preliminary investigation indicated the suspect had broken the front glass door, removed items from the church and was in the process of attempting to set the church on fire, as well as damaging property inside the church.
Julio C. Chevesgarcia, 24, of Pinon Hills, Calif., was arrested and charged with DUI, first-degree criminal mischief, third-degree burglary, theft by unlawful taking under $500, public intoxication, attempted second-degree arson, third-degree assault on a police officer (two counts) and resisting arrest. He was taken tothe McCracken County Jail.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kentucky State Police Post 1 at 270-856-3721 or anonymously at 1-800-222-5555. Citizens may also report tips anonymously through the KSP app. The app is available for iPhone, iPad and Android applications and can be easily downloaded free of charge through Apple and Google Play stores.