St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office News Release: Arrest made for burglary at Assembly of God

On Wednesday, Nov. 20, James Walker, 47, Kansas City, was arrested in connection with a burglary at the Assembly of God, 3845 Old Highway 13, Osceola. On Thursday, Nov. 21, an arrest warrant was obtained charging Walker with class C felony burglary in the second degree, class C felony tampering with a motor vehicle in the first degree and class D felony property damage in the first degree. Walker’s bond is set at $10,000 cash or surety.

On Nov. 20 information was received from the Clinton Police Department (CPD) concerning a possible burglary at the church building. A St. Clair County deputy responded to the building and observed an open door that had pry marks on it. An investigation revealed a van was missing from the property along with several food items that were recently purchased for families in the area to have Thanksgiving dinner. Tents were reported missing from a closet in one of the classrooms and there was damage to a window in the sanctuary. Other damage was reported throughout the church building.  

The church’s van was recovered in Clinton and many of the food items were located inside of a residence in Clinton. Walker was taken into custody by the CPD and turned over to a St. Clair County deputy who transported him to the St. Clair County Jail. Walker was interviewed and a confession was obtained. It was noted it appeared all of the food was returned, but an inventory had not been completed.

Property damage to Osceola Station

On Nov. 22, a deputy responded to Osceola Station, 3650 NE Old Highway 13, Osceola, regarding property damage. Marylyn Williams reported on Nov. 20, she noticed a door had been pried on and an overhead garage door window broken out. Damage was estimated at $330 and a request for prosecution was signed. The investigation revealed the same suspect who burglarized the Assembly of God, James Walker, also caused the damage to the Osceola Station. During an interview with Walker, a confession was obtained. Formal charges are pending.