Church members may feel less threatened when individuals approach the church because we believe that they are seeking help rather than looking for a victim. Additionally, criminals may target churches because church administrators are not taking precautions to prevent crime. Businesses, schools, households and apartment complexes have increased their crime prevention efforts. Security hardware, lighting and alarms of various designs are installed, maintained and upgraded regularly. Through our research and study, we have learned that churches just aren't safe havens anymore.
Nothing is sacred to the criminal.
Almost every church, whether it is located in an urban, suburban or rural setting, has legitimate security concerns. Murder on church property is increasing. In Jackson, Mississippi, Central Presbyterian voted to close its 99-year location after one of its staff members was murdered. Parkway Baptist, also of Jackson, sold its facility and relocated after a young girl was murdered on their property. In Los Angeles, a nun was strangled in the church garden.