WILMINGTON,NC (WECT)- A church might not be the top place people might associate with crime, however the Wilmington Police Department said the statistics are growing.
"The numbers are showing us we need to partner with the faith-based community because by biblical nature, church members are often more compassionate and often fall victim to crimes," said Linda Rawley with the WPD.
Rawley said the department wants to arm pastors, leaders and church goers with knowledge of how to spot unwelcome guests in a congregation.
"We are holding an event to focus on ways to spot financial scam artists and sexual predators-- those lurking around looking to prey on women and children. We also want to teach leaders how to recognize and deal with congregants who may show signs of substance abuse or domestic violence," said Rawley.
The crime detection and prevention seminar for faith-based communities and community leaders, titled 'Predators in the Pews' will be Saturday March 16, 2013 from 8:30 a.m. to noon.
It will be at the Wilmington Police Department located at 615 Bess Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 (blue room). Space is limited so registration is required by Friday, March 15.
To register call 910-341-4608 or email linda.rawley@wilmingtonnc.gov
The event is free of charge.
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