Attleboro Man Arrested for Vandalizing Landmark Cathedral
An Attleboro man, Michael Patzelt, with a lengthy criminal history, is facing charges in connection with a brazen act of vandalism at a landmark cathedral on Tuesday night. The incident caused extensive damage to a 150-year-old crucifix with broken arms.
Patzelt, 37, was arraigned Wednesday in Boston Municipal Court on charges including assault and malicious destruction of property. According to prosecutors, he climbed the cross outside of the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and began swinging and hanging from it, causing approximately $20,000 worth of damage.
The Boston Police Department received a report of a suspicious person who knocked off a female victim’s headwear. Witnesses stated that Patzelt then climbed the cross and swung from it, breaking off several parts including both arms of the Jesus Christ statue.
A video shared with Boston 25 News showed Patzelt, dressed in all green, yanking and swinging on the armless portion of the statue. Prior to this, Patzelt entered a nearby store and knocked off a woman’s hat, subsequently grabbing her hair and throwing it. The victim mentioned that he also threatened her, saying “just shoot me.”
Patzelt has a significant criminal record, including a prior prison sentence for assaulting an ambulance driver. The judge initially asked for a $500 bail, but after reviewing Patzelt’s extensive criminal history, increased it to $5,000. The judge expressed concern over Patzelt’s mental state and suggested prompt evaluation if mental illness is at play.
Patzelt’s attorney noted that he is currently unemployed, homeless, and remorseful for his actions. It was explained that Patzelt had been living with his grandmother in Attleboro, but after her passing, he was forced to leave.
Along with bail, Patzelt was ordered to stay away from the victim and her son, as well as to refrain from going within 100 feet of the Cathedral of the Holy Cross. Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden expressed disappointment over the incident, emphasizing the importance of religious symbols to various faiths in society.
Repairs to the vandalized crucifix were underway and the investigation is ongoing. The 19th-century statue was brought to the Cathedral two years ago and holds sentimental value for many individuals.
The Cathedral of the Holy Cross is the largest church in New England, measuring 364 feet in length, 90 feet in width, and 120 feet in height.
Patzelt is scheduled to appear in court on November 30.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates.
