Copper pipes stolen from Lauderdale Lakes church

Copper pipes, backflow valve stolen from International Faith Christian Fellowship

LAUDERDALE LAKES, Fla. – Thieves stole copper pipes from International Faith Christian Fellowship overnight Tuesday.

"I came over and there was water all over the floor," said Mitzy Banton. "I'm sure they know this is a church. How can they steal from a church?"

Banton then saw the backflow valve and copper pipes were gone.

"Initially I thought, 'Wow, somebody broke it,' but then I realized that it was more than that," she said.

According to the Broward Sheriff's Office, International Faith Christian Fellowship was the fifth church in Lauderdale Lakes to have their copper pipes stolen since mid-November.

Until plumbers made a temporary fix, there was no water in the kitchen or in the bathroom. Home health classes had to be cancelled.

"We are praying that God will send somebody out here to help us," said Bishop Evan Grant.

The money needed to fix the plumbing would come from a fund used to buy Christmas gifts for children in need, said Grant.

"I forgive you, but if you're watching me now on television, please bring it back," he said.

Anyone with information on the theft is asked to call Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS.