Two individuals were arrested early April 18 following a reported break-in at a church in Springhill, according to police reports.
Officers responded around 1:18 AM to the 1200 block of Third Street in reference to a burglary at a Pentecostal church. Upon arrival, officers located two suspects inside the building.
Authorities identified the individuals as Michael Gardner and Lacy Carter, 32, of Springhill. According to the report, both were found in possession of drug paraphernalia, including a pipe containing methamphetamine residue.
During a recorded interview, Carter stated she had stayed inside the church for the past two nights and admitted the pair had been using methamphetamine while inside the building. Carter also stated Gardner had been at the church multiple times, while she had only been there with him on two occasions.
Officers observed damage to an east-side door, where wood appeared to have been broken to gain entry into the building.
Both suspects were transported to the Springhill Police Department and later booked into Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center.
Carter and Gardner were charged with simple burglary of a religious building, possession of a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance (methamphetamine), and possession of drug paraphernalia.
All subjects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.