By Carol Wyatt
Washington County SheriffÂ’s Office is investigating vandalism that took place at New Orange Baptist Church on Alford Road earlier this week.
Pastor Steve Umholtz arrived at the church Tuesday, May 11, to discover someone had destroyed a wooden cross that previously stood in the church courtyard and cemetery. It is believed to have happened between 6 p.m. Monday evening and 7 a.m. Tuesday morning.
“I have no idea why anyone would want to damage a church cross,” said Umholtz. “Thankfully, the cemetery and graves were not damaged. I want to make sure other churches know what happened so that they can be on the lookout in case it happens again.”
Washington County Sheriff Kevin Crews states the person(s) who committed the act were likely driving an ATV of some kind.
“Whoever did it may think it was harmless, but it is just a total lack of respect,” said Sheriff Crews. “We don’t take this lightly.”
As for the unknown culprit, Pastor Umholtz says thereÂ’s only one thing to do as his church rebuilds the cross:
“We will just pray for them.”
Anyone with any information on this incident is asked to contact WCSO at 850-638-6111.
Hannah Collins 
GARRETT VALCOURT