UPDATE: Arrest made in vandalism of 5 black churches; Bias ruled out as motive

MORRISTOWN -- Authorities said they are treating vandalism reported Saturday at five Morris County churches as possible bias crimes.

The houses of worship alerted police on Saturday that they were the victims of vandalism overnight, according to a joint statement from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Morristown and Morris Township police departments.

"The vandalism was limited to property damage including a broken stained glass window and broken or damaged exterior signs," the statement said.

The following churches reported the vandalism:

Church of God in Christ for All Saints, 3 Rowe Street, Morristown

Bethel A.M.E. Church, 59 Spring Street, Morristown

Calvary Baptist Church, 10 Martin Luther King Avenue, Morristown

Union Baptist Church, 89 Spring Street, Morristown

Morristown Church of Christ, 265 Martin Luther King Avenue, Morris Township

What demonic spirit would possess someone to do this to our church sign and also the other African American churches in Morristown? Posted by Sidney Williams on Saturday, November 25, 2017

"Police will be increasing their presence at all local churches to ensure the continued safety of all community members, however we ask that people remain vigilant and call police if any suspicious activity is observed," the prosecutor's office said.

Authorities declined to release more details, citing the ongoing investigation.

Governor-elect Phil Murphy responded to the crimes on Twitter.

"Disgusted by reported vandalism of African-American churches across Morristown. These cowardly acts will not shake our faith," Murphy said. "They will renew our determination to come together as one NJ."

Anyone with information was urged to call the prosecutor's office bias crimes unit at 973-285-6200, the Morristown Police at 973-538-2200, or Morris Township Police at 973-539-0777.

Tips can also be sent anonymously through Morris County Crime Stoppers by calling 973-COP-CALL (973-267-2255) or online at www.morriscrimestoppers.org.

Disgusted by reported vandalism of African-American churches across Morristown. These cowardly acts will not shake our faith. They will renew our determination to come together as one NJ. -PM — Phil Murphy (@PhilMurphyNJ) November 26, 2017

Noah Cohen may be reached at ncohen@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @noahyc and on Facebook.

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