Butler, PA — The peaceful atmosphere of St. Paul’s Church was disrupted by a theft early yesterday morning. Butler City Police initiated an investigation after reports of a burglary at the church on McKean Street. The accused, 36-year-old Joseph Fee III, allegedly pried open a donation box and stole between $200 and $300.
According to Butler City Police Chief Bob O’Neill, detectives were able to quickly identify Fee as the suspect, thanks to the church’s surveillance system. The footage reportedly showed Fee using objects within the church to break open the donation box and remove the funds.
Fee was arrested shortly after the burglary was discovered. He now faces multiple charges, including burglary, vandalism, and theft. The arrest followed the release of security footage that played a key role in solving the crime.
Fee was unable to post bail and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing next week, where he will face further legal proceedings related to the theft. The case has drawn attention in the local community as the church congregation continues to cope with the unsettling event.
