On November 30, 2025, at approximately 5:01 p.m., West Plains Police responded to a report of a burglary in progress at a church located in the 800 block of Worley.
Officer R. Shell observed a broken window on the north side of the building upon arrival. At the rear of the property, officers located Brandon Swartz, who was taken into custody without incident. A piece of broken glass was found in Swartz’s pocket.
After being advised of his rights, Swartz told officers he had been outside for two days and broke the window in an attempt to enter the church because he was cold.
The church pastor reported damages estimated at $1,000 to the window and an additional $20 in blinds torn down during the entry. Surveillance footage confirmed Swartz forcibly entered the building through the broken window.
Swartz has been charged with Property Damage in the First Degree.
