A Maryland man, Thomas Campbell Bolling Von Goetz, was arrested after disrupting two local churches’ Christmas Eve services by causing a scene and endangering citizens. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office announced that Von Goetz was charged with several offenses after entering Holy Angels Catholic Church and dropping an onion in the aisle during Mass. A witness followed him out of the church and saw him assault another person by throwing tangerines at him. Later that night, Von Goetz disrupted Midnight Mass at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church by pouring whiskey into the holy water and threatening parishioners.
As Von Goetz was escorted out of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, he attempted to hit several individuals with a whiskey bottle. However, parishioners were able to detain him until deputies arrived. Von Goetz was then transported to a local hospital for a medical evaluation. Two days later, on December 26, 2024, he was arrested and charged with Second-Degree Assault, Disorderly Conduct, Defacing Religious Property, Religious Crime Against a Group, Obstructing a Religious Exercise, Threat of Mass Violence, and Disturbing the Peace. He is currently being held at St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center, awaiting an appearance before a District Court Commissioner.
The disruptive behavior displayed by Von Goetz caused chaos and fear among church attendees during the holy Christmas Eve services. His actions, including throwing food in one church and pouring whiskey into holy water in another, were dangerous and disrespectful towards the religious institutions and the parishioners. The quick response by parishioners and deputies in detaining him helped prevent further harm and allowed for Von Goetz to be taken into custody and charged with multiple offenses.
The incident involving Von Goetz disrupting two Christmas Eve services at local churches highlights the importance of maintaining respect and sanctity in places of worship. His reckless and disrespectful behavior not only disrupted the services but also posed a threat to the safety and well-being of those in attendance. The charges filed against him reflect the severity of his actions and the consequences of disrupting religious activities and endangering citizens.
The arrest of Von Goetz serves as a reminder of the consequences individuals may face for disrupting religious services and causing chaos in sacred places. The charges brought against him demonstrate that such behavior will not be tolerated, and those responsible will be held accountable for their actions. The swift response by law enforcement and parishioners in detaining him also highlights the importance of community cooperation in maintaining safety and order in public spaces.
As the case of Thomas Campbell Bolling Von Goetz unfolds, the authorities will continue to investigate the incident and ensure that justice is served. The disruption of Christmas Eve services at local churches by Von Goetz underscores the need for vigilance and cooperation in safeguarding religious institutions and the individuals who gather to worship within them. By holding individuals accountable for their actions, the community can work together to uphold the sanctity and safety of places of worship for all.
