WASHINGTON TWP. - As a Gloucester County congregation prayed during Sunday Mass, a thief preyed on an altar server, police said.

Washington Township Police released surveillance photos Monday of the suspect walking to and from St. Charles Borromeo Church.

The suspect took a brown satchel containing valuables that belonged to the altar server in the April 7 theft, police said. The incident occurred around 10:50 a.m. during regular church services.

The person was wearing a dark coat, dark shorts and white sunglasses and has a large tattoo on the left shin, police said.

The church was an unusual target, noted Washington Township Police Capt. Kenneth Kennedy.

"This is the kind of crime we see at a business or a movie theater, particularly where it's dark," he said.

Police are now advising other congregations to exercise caution.

"We're definitely making them aware," he said.

Anyone who can identify the individual or provide other valuable information is asked to contact Detective Fred Volpe at 856-589-0330, ext. 1102, or fvolpe@pd.twp.washington.nj.us.

Sheri Berkery: @SheriBerkery; 856-486-2673; sberkery@gannettnj.com

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