Megachurch Thieves Get Cash, Checks, Credit Card Info

The well known pastor Joel Osteen and his Houston megachurch has been robbed – the thieves getting away with cash, checks, and credit card information from a church safe. Police spokeswoman Jodi...
Megachurch Thieves Get Cash, Checks, Credit Card Info
Written by
  • The well known pastor Joel Osteen and his Houston megachurch has been robbed – the thieves getting away with cash, checks, and credit card information from a church safe.

    Police spokeswoman Jodi Silva said Tuesday that no arrests have been made in the theft that occurred at Lakewood Church.

    The goods in the safe contained the offerings that were given on Saturday, March 8 and Sunday, March 9. Investigators believe the safe was broken into between 2:30 pm Sunday and 8:30 am Monday. Lakewood followers have been advised to monitor their accounts.

    The megachurch discovered the theft on Monday, and informed churchgoers of the burglary via email.

    Lakewood Church must really do well on the weekends, as authorities are investigating that approximately $600,000 ($200,000 in cash and $400,000 in checks) was stolen from that safe. Osteen’s megachurch is one of the largest congregations in the country.

    The church has been known to see more than 40,000 people attend weekly services, and Osteen’s televised sermons reach nearly 100 countries.

    Church officials say there’s no data breach and the stolen funds are insured. However, followers’ credit card information was in donation envelopes. They also commented that they are cooperating with police.

    In a statement issued Monday, Lakewood Church said, “We are working with the police to fully investigate the incident. The funds were fully insured, and we are working with our insurance company to restore the stolen funds to the church.”

    The Houston Police Department is investigating the matter.

    Image via YouTube

    Get the WebProNews newsletter delivered to your inbox

    Get the free daily newsletter read by decision makers

    Subscribe
    Advertise with Us

    Ready to get started?

    Get our media kit