Suspect Taken Into Custody in Numerous Church Burglaries

TYLER — The U.S. Marshal’s Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Task Force Monday arrested a suspect in numerous Smith County Church burglaries last year. Tyler police say 36-year-old say Kinon Peacock was picked up in Houston based on a collateral lead from the US Marshal’s Joint East Texas Fugitive Task Force. Police say Peacock was located at a residence hiding in a closet when he was taken into custody. The Tyler Police Department had three outstanding warrants on Peacock for burglary of a building.

On August 31, Tyler Police put out the word that they were investigating several church burglaries that had increased over the previous few days in the Tyler area. They said the burglar was forcing his way into the church by breaking a window or door. Once inside the church he would look for a safe or cash that he may obtain. Police added the suspect was caught on church video. On September 8, investigators say they spotted they spotted Peacock in his vehicle and attempted to take him into custody. Authorities say Peacock fled on foot from his vehicle, evading arrest.

The following locations and dates are listed below of churches that have been broken into.

6/27 3421 Old Jacksonville Hwy Soma Church

7/25 1903 E. Front St Friendly Baptist

8/28 1435 E SE Loop 323 St. Peter and Paul Chapel

8/28 4202 S. Broadway Ave. First Christian

8/28 2401 N. Broadway Ave. Church of Latter Day Saints

8/30 3606 Van Hwy. Pinebrook Baptist

8/30 1101 S SW Loop 323 Church on the Move

8/31 1616 E. Fifth St. Fifth Street Presbyterian