A Riverhead man has been arrested after police say he attempted to burglarize a church in Center Moriches while preschool classes were taking place inside, prompting a shelter-in-place response for young children and staff.
According to Suffolk County Police, the incident occurred at approximately 12:50 p.m. Tuesday at the Presbyterian Church of the Moriches on Main Street. Authorities say Daniel Fanuele, 30, allegedly tried to kick in a door to gain entry to the building, where Gentle Hearts Preschool was in session.
An employee confronted Fanuele, who then fled the scene on foot. As a precaution, 19 students and two staff members sheltered in place until police arrived. No injuries were reported.
Following an investigation, Seventh Squad detectives identified Fanuele, who was later located and arrested by Seventh Precinct patrol officers at approximately 2:41 p.m. at the intersection of Coventry Avenue and Mastic Road in Mastic.
Fanuele, of Riverhead, has been charged with Attempted Burglary in the Third Degree and Criminal Mischief. He is being held overnight at the Sixth Precinct and is scheduled to be arraigned on March 18 at First District Court in Central Islip.
Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact Seventh Squad detectives at 631-852-8752.
Authorities remind the public that a criminal charge is an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
