Priest threatened, crucifix and Divine Mercy statue smashed

About 5:30 p.m. Nathan Thomas Mikesell, 40, entered while the priest prepared for Mass, threatened to kill him, swung a procession crucifix and missed, then smashed the crucifix and a plaza Divine Mercy statue. Pastor estimated statue damage about $12,000; hymn books and a bathroom gate also damaged. Priest not injured. Mikesell pleaded guilty to damage to property Aug 31 and was jailed after an unpaid $2,000 fine.