Three arrested for Mishawaka church burglary

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Posted: 2:10 PM Jun 23, 2008
Last Updated: 2:10 PM Jun 23, 2008

85 comments

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Three people were arrested for allegedly breaking into St. Mark Missionary Church in Mishawaka.

Police say 19-year-old Abbie Briggs of Mishawaka has been arrested and charged with burglary. She posted a $3,000 bond to get out of jail. Two 17-year-old males were also arrested and transported to the Juvenile Justice Center on charges of burglary.

Police say the three stole a flat screen computer, a digital camcorder amplifiers, guitars and a safe. Police valued the total stolen material at nearly $5,000.

St. Joseph County Police received information that a stolen guitar was sold to a business on Grape Rd. Detective Sgt. Regis Thimons verified the guitar was stolen from the church and traced the sale back to Briggs.

Briggs was questioned by police and was arrested.

Police say all of the other stolen items were recovered from Briggs’ apartment and were returned to the church.

Police say they found the safe just north of the church in a creek. The safe was not breached and the contents of the safe were still secured.

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Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.

Posted by: the boys old friend. on Jul 12, 2008 at 03:12 PM
two boys and a girl... I miss ya and pray for ya daily hoping God is merciful and gives you grace to make it through the consequences... I am hopeful for a complete turn around for you guys. God forgave moses a murderer, david an adulterer, and you know what the forgiveness from God is there for the asking. YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!! God is with you, wherever you are and will protect you through the consequences of the mistakes you make in this life!! I am praying for your safety and your life changing experience. Praying you learn that God sees all hears all knows all, and expecting Mercy to be on your side. As we know God is the judge, and as harshly as we judge others, so we will be judged on that great and terrible judgment day! Though satan is the first to speak his dimes worth, God will have the LAST word. For those who have put God last in their heads when leaving comments, and their own opinions first. the first will be last and the last will be first!

Posted by: Heather Location: South Bend on Jul 3, 2008 at 12:23 PM
i think she should go to jail just as you would for any crime

Posted by: frankie on Jul 2, 2008 at 11:48 PM
if they steal gas will the pastor run them over and then save them?

Posted by: Sharper Location: mishy on Jul 2, 2008 at 04:39 PM
Dump more money in the collection basket, pray for those that don't have big screen tv's and guitars. Pray that Officer Barney Fife will continue to solve crimes like McGruff the crime dog. moral of the story--the church can steal from you but you can't steal from the church, cuz you will get caught. Steal Gas instead.

Posted by: snork Location: PennTownship on Jul 2, 2008 at 04:22 PM
I feel safer knowing that sgt Barney Fife solved the mystery of the church theft. That's police work at its finest. snork snork

Posted by: Terry Location: Mishawaka on Jul 2, 2008 at 07:29 AM
Would all you people just shut up and stay out of it!!!! Let the parents and the police handle this problem. I am sure nobody needs to hear your pennys worth. Everybody involved will have enough to deal with in the up coming months.

Posted by: Josie Location: Granger on Jul 2, 2008 at 12:30 AM
I agree with the Pastor here. Let's end this post as everyone has voiced their opinion and these young adults have a life to lead after they own up to what they did. I am sure they will learn their lesson as we all did for something or other when we were teenagers..(most of us here, I'm sure) God bless these youths and help them make the right decisions from here forward. God bless the parents to give them the strength to get through this ordeal. I will pray for you all. Let's stop throwing stones on this website and hope for the best for everyone involved. Most people make mistakes. It does not make them a criminal forever. I think we should let these young people turn their lives around without being so mean. I'm sure they are suffering now as I am writing this. As long as they learn a lesson, that's all I hope and so should you all here.

Posted by: someone that knows Abby Location: mushawaka on Jul 1, 2008 at 08:44 PM
When I heard about this I was not suprised at all. I grew up near Abby and went to school with her. I dont know why people are standing up for her when I have seen he do things like this on small turn. I dont know why people say that she is sweet when people around her were hurt. Even more so doing something like this to her mother. I know her mother and I love her very much. She is a very sweet lady and she never deserved this. Abby just never thought how it would affect her as well as her family. But I guess that is hopw she really was. And Mrs. Briggs I'm very sorry for you.

Posted by: Anom Location: Bittersweet on Jul 1, 2008 at 01:11 PM
Bahhahaha. Thats so weak. But I totally understand a 19 yr old who lives on her own trying to figure out how to make ends meet, esp because of being in school. oh well, live and learn

Posted by: Josh Location: Granger on Jul 1, 2008 at 08:30 AM
Yeah, um...me and Allison stick up for our cousin because we care about her, and I already showed this to one of my friends who works for the South Bend police, he said the only person that you all threating is me, because I clearly did not threaten a minor, although I know others who may want to have a word with those two guys, so I suggest you all get your facts straight, Im not your mother..so leave it at that!

Posted by: LUCY 2 Location: Mishawaka on Jun 30, 2008 at 11:18 PM
The only one on here that makes any common since about our Lord or this situation is Lucy. So read over her posts and think about what your reading. Go read a bible, and review God's Law, and then go get a Law book and read our law's. Theirs a difference people.

Posted by: lucy Location: south bend on Jun 30, 2008 at 05:58 PM
Don't see how Willie was SUPPORTING me. Lucy, Me, and William are all names on here. Get it through your head of yours. If I'm misunderstanding what he wrote, then he needs to take some english classes, because that comment does not sound supportive at all, thanks.

Posted by: ttt Location: south on Jun 30, 2008 at 12:04 AM
abbie, we love you and we support you all the way, don't listen to these people putting you down they don't know you like we do...

Posted by: Nancy Location: Mishawaka on Jun 28, 2008 at 07:08 PM
I don't know anyone here nor do I attend at St Marks, but I hope these kids get on the right track. Being a parent is tough and even when you use every avenue of discipline, they can and will make bad decisions some affecting them long after. The kids need to be forced to face their wrongs & deal with the consequences. No excuses whatsoever to be accepted. God didn't accept excuses from Adam/Eve when they tried to pass the buck. They were dealt with harshly for it. I read people are upset at the parents....yes, some parents do turn blind eyes and coddle their kids; which is wrong. They are then responsible. However, remember God is our Father. He is perfect. But, we read that even His children (Israel) disobeyed him many times bringing about harsh discipline on them. So even good parents can have children turn their backs on good upbringing, teachings and go astray. I will be praying for these young adults and their parents....and my teens for good wisdom in their future.

Posted by: Pastor C.B. Location: Mishawaka IN on Jun 27, 2008 at 12:14 PM
This really breaks my heart. I know all who were involved...All Really good kids- Not criminals. I have had the privilege and opportunity to minister to all three at different times. They are obviously not perfect, they really made some poor choices. I really hope and pray that they all learn from this, make some changes, repent and go on. I feel it is important to note that when something like this happens our human nature is to protect our own. We tend to circle the wagons and protect our own individual family's. sometimes in doing this we can get fired up and start blaming others. It is never a good idea to place blame, rather we need to accept what we have done(Whatever that is)and try to make it right! My prayers are with all of your family's. The road ahead will not be easy, for any of the three, or their family's. I'm just really glad that the word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time (Jonah 3:1) God is a God of second chances, and third, fourth, fifth,.............

Posted by: To Lucy and Nonya Location: LetMeHelpYouOut on Jun 27, 2008 at 09:36 AM
Hey Lucy. I think Willie was SUPPORTING you, not berating you, you fool. He was talking to you, saying that people should listen to you all. Guess you are too riled up to allow it to process through that head of yours. Get a grip. Nonya- Josh didn't threaten anyone. He warned them that there may be people out there that want to do him harm. See how that can be spun? So get over it, you'll never prove a thing if something happens to those kids. And no, I don't support them. And no, I don't know them. I just get annoyed with silly comments of "ooh, you're gonna be in trouble 'cuz I heard you threaten him!"

Posted by: Margaret Location: South Bend on Jun 27, 2008 at 06:23 AM
What a shame that God's house is being robbed. Shame on you kids.

Posted by: AUNTIE & SIS OF 17'S on Jun 26, 2008 at 06:59 PM
People just need to except the fact that Abbie's not perfect and SHE DID have a major part to play if not a little more than the boys...A sin is a sin GOD treats them all the same so before you people on here pass judgement on these kids you really need to make sure your slate is clean...

Posted by: Ms. Sarcastic Location: south bend on Jun 26, 2008 at 04:45 PM
these are great kids and don't deserve you people talking smack about them, I mean they didn't mean to break into that church and steal from it. I mean their life is so rough, they have it so bad. Look, that poor girl lost her father what did you expect her to do?

Posted by: Boyfriends MOM on Jun 26, 2008 at 04:43 PM
To Josh, I printed out these comments just so I have them to show the police! Thanks for posting them for the world to see. Threating a minor hhmmm real smart on your part. All of you are rediculous with these postings, all 3 are guilty no one in this situation is more guilty then the other. They all broke the law and will pay for this. I am not on one side more them the other nor am I pointing the finger at 1 more then the other. I just pray the lord works in there hearts and they seek him for forgivness he is the only one who can help them out of this mess. Abbie I will pray for you as well. All three of the kids are in my heart and prayers and I wish everyone reading this would do the same. It is so funny how her family is so quick to point the finger at my son but don't take any responsibility for her actions. Just remember no one was forced this was there choice all 3 of them and now they will serve there time. God bless all of you and all the families

Posted by: lucy Location: south bend on Jun 26, 2008 at 04:32 PM
Excuse me, but what is everyone's problem? What the heck did I say that had no common sense? Ok, since I don't understand what you are all talking about or giving me such a hard time I'll go back to the children's table. You're right...I must not have any common sense. It seems that common sense in this situation would be for the kids to be on probation and community service, but everyone here with great common sense just thinks "they're good kids with good intentions"....ok

Posted by: Geez on Jun 26, 2008 at 04:11 PM
Everyone type real slow for lucy if she doesnt get it this time she'll have to go back to the kids table.

Posted by: Angry Location: South Bend on Jun 26, 2008 at 04:00 PM
Yeah Josh keeping living in your pretend world with Abbie, you must not be to close to your cousin to know her I take it, That's ok because anythig happens to that boy when he gets out it is all on you Josh Abbie's cousin from Granger, I got your number boy and you will be put where Abbie was. Ask her how she liked it. Kinda funny you think she is so innocent, and she drove and was the look out! Not to mentioned the money went in her account because she was over drawn. Funny thing is all the family here realizes it was all 3 of there faults they ALL did this together. I'll pray for you Josh because you need it. You say you know the family that runs the church but listen to your comments how everyone should go to hell, you really need prayer. And to me you are sick! To even compare losing a father as a teen to a lost dog! What is wrong with you. and your an educator OMG! I am friends with these kids and the bf did not control her any more then she controlled him. I seen how they both are

Posted by: lucy Location: south bend on Jun 26, 2008 at 03:29 PM
I'm listening to you Willie. What kind of common sense would you like me to listen to? Why do you think I don't have common sense?

Posted by: lucy Location: south bend on Jun 26, 2008 at 03:27 PM
Willie-what on earth are you talking about? Common sense? You break the law, um, like STEALING in this situation, you pay the consequences. How about probation and community service. Now what's wrong with that type of common sense? Let me guess-they did nothing wrong? If you don't like my comment about judging someone morally-if you still believe only God can judge, then why do we have judges and juries? HUH? Yeah I like to be a smarta**, but at least I know the difference between right and wrong.

Posted by: Willie Location: Niles on Jun 26, 2008 at 01:47 PM
It would be nice to think that these fine folks would listen to common sense, lucy, Me, and William. My guess is that they won't.

Posted by: appauled on Jun 26, 2008 at 12:31 PM
anyone who would compare someones dad dieing to a clogged sink or a missing dog is a sick person. your are lucky to not have had any major trajedy in your life. I think people were only pointing out that this girl has issues and may have led to some of her misguided ways. Not that she shouldnt be punished. I have only seen the family and friends agree that they should all be punished....oh except for Josh because even though Abie is the only one who drives she is completely innocent.

Posted by: Anonymous on Jun 26, 2008 at 12:24 PM
To Josh who did this to your cousin??? Your cousin! She did this to herself noone forced her to do anything she had no gun to her head to be the look out nor to take these items to the pawn shop! Look at the video tape while she goes in smilen getting the money then straight to the bank to put in her account because she was overdrawn over $300. If your putting the blame on anyone here JOSH is is all 3. The 2 boys where stupid enough to listen to her winning butt about needed the money in her account because she can't balance anything. I have your number Josh in Granger the cousin of Abbie, mess with the bf I dare you, better yet mess with me big boy! You'll be in the same spot as your cousin!! Funny thing is how your to her defense when she had the car and she was just as involved in the crime as them. They are wrong and need to pray forgivness to God he is the only one they need to worry about here. As for Corey you need time to, keep your drug habits to yourself leave the kids alone!

Posted by: Nonya on Jun 26, 2008 at 12:23 PM
yeah Josh because she is innocent we all know it all everyone elses fault you are still threatening a minor so if something happens to him whenever he is done with his time we all know who to look for!

Posted by: lucy Location: south bend on Jun 26, 2008 at 10:25 AM
To Me: You said it!!! I completely agree with you 100%. All these people preaching "only god can judge" is plain bs. Yeah maybe on your final judgement day, but I was trying to tell people on here that ANYONE has the right to morally judge someone and that's exactly what people are doing here. They're saying what she did was WRONG and she should pay for the consequences. No one on here is talking about standing at the pearl gate judging this girl on wether she is to go to hell or heaven, that's God's job. We as citizens have THE RIGHT to judge MORALLY! She did something wrong not right.

Posted by: Svengali Location: Elkhart on Jun 26, 2008 at 06:10 AM
Kid's today have no idea of right and wrong anymore. NONE. And their parents are to blame that is for sure. Stealing from a church is about as low as you can get. Drug habits to support no doubt? or just greedy?

Posted by: Me Location: Goshen on Jun 25, 2008 at 10:06 PM
As an educator, I see a trend of people making excuses for children's behavior rather than dealing with it. We never hold kids accountable and then when they get caught and the courts get ahold of them we are so shocked that they will be punished. Yes, it is sad her dad died. What if her dog ran away, her favorite show got cancelled and she got a run in her hose? No matter what, STEALING IS WRONG! To all of you family members who are asking who we all are to judge? We are local citizens who are sick of kids doing bad things and having excuses made for them. We are not judging, we are quoting GOD--it is right there in the 10 Commandments--NO STEALING! It doesn't say you can steal if you get poison ivy, if your sink is clogged or if your dad died. It is wrong. And to Mom of 17 yr old---funny how your kid is "just a child" but when he was 15 dating a 17 year old, she was "almost an adult". Oh, no! I just broke a nail. Think I'll rob a bank!

Posted by: Josh Location: Granger on Jun 25, 2008 at 09:34 PM
Hey nonya, anyone who puts my cousin thru this deserves to suffer, dont make me waste my time, youre wrong im right...

Posted by: Redirect on Jun 25, 2008 at 05:36 PM
why all the hate for these teens? Lets redirect our hate to this child molester who has been sentenced to 71 years and the man who killed 2 and is into kiddie porn. These are the people who really deserve all this hate and attention. H*ll is to good for these guys.

Posted by: Willis Location: South Bend on Jun 25, 2008 at 05:34 PM
Anon, you must not know them very well. One of the boys screen name includes mydeadsoul Look at his myspace...he has issues. Only one item was sold, but everything was given back to the church.

Posted by: Wade Location: s.bend on Jun 25, 2008 at 04:52 PM
I never seen so much he said she said on one page of a website in my life. If you are a relative, or good friend of any of the people involved, use a telephone or meet with these people like a civilized person and speak your word. Don't just point fingers at people, and throw out everyone's business. The whole community has no legitimate say in any of this. They messed up. Bottom line. Let them deal with it. If they are put in jail, they are put in jail. It's called the justice system. This is not the 1700's, the whole town has no say in this and shouldn't even have enough time on their hands to raise hell and throw stones. Half of you on hear remind me of a crazed mob on their way up to castle Frankenstein to stop some sort of monster. And let's face it, gas is real expensive and they don't make torches like they used to.

Posted by: Anonymous on Jun 25, 2008 at 04:06 PM
T- collin is the druggy, not abbie. learn something before speaking.

Posted by: Willie Location: Niles on Jun 25, 2008 at 02:59 PM
I think my IQ dipped about 30 points just reading these comments. Better go eat some fish...

Posted by: T on Jun 25, 2008 at 02:31 PM
All I can say to all of these comments are you sure are quick to judge these 3 kids. If they would have stayed away from there influence C who is the baby's daddy in the family to the mom's boyfriend this might have been prevented. Eveyone cares so much check into him. He has provided drugs and a high influence on breaking the law and how much money they could get by doing it. He is bad news funny thing is we tried telling them to stay away from the man who spent time in prison for Meth. Abs mom just so you know he is there supplier and has been and now look. Making all this look fun and exciting to these kids. C you better be careful your day will come my friend for getting these kids hooked on drugs and supplying it to them and for making crimes look so apealing to the young eye. Instead of bashing the bf Josh you need to go after C instead. Wouldn't suggest you even attemp to harm the bf, he not the one to blame here, your family needs to dig deeper into C an his charcter he's bad!

Posted by: not anonymous on Jun 25, 2008 at 12:32 PM
Yeah, anonymous. If you don't play by Allison's rules, she going to..ummm...call you really bad names.

Posted by: Nonya on Jun 25, 2008 at 11:24 AM
Everybody catch that Josh threatened a minor!

Posted by: Allison Location: The Burg on Jun 25, 2008 at 11:13 AM
To all the Anonymous's...if you're going to be this rude to all 3 of the people involved the least you could do is suck it up and put your real names up here. If you don't want to post your real name then you don't have anything to post.

Posted by: Anon on Jun 25, 2008 at 11:02 AM
To finish my comment for Josh, wouldn't be so quick to put the blame on the bf. Like I was saying before my post ran short, he was trying to do what he could for her, I know it was horrible what they did and hope they pay and they are with time right now while Abbie is out but like I said just ask her why it was done!! The bf is suffering right now and realizes she also was bringing him down as well. He is not a low life like people are commenting he was a very good child seems they both have brought out the worst in each other and now they are paying. Love does funny things in life especially when your young and the bf is trying to help his girlfriend get out of a financial mess and would have done anything to help her. I guess her mother should have took off her blinders with her daughter and been around more instead of leaving these kids to do as they please at her home and running around town. Remeber she si the adult in this, he is still a child. and she was never pressured, helped

Posted by: Anon on Jun 25, 2008 at 10:55 AM
This is to Josh and Daniel, your sweet dear Abbie why don't you ask her why this whole thing was done in the first place! I know all three of the kids very well and I also know the full story after talking seperatly with the 2 boys involved. Ask her why it was done!! And your sweet dear Abbie also has some serious mental isues, yeah she lost her dad but how she also acted with her bf was a little wierd. This was all done by the 3 of them they all had equal parts in this the funny thing is it was done for her. Ask her where the money went from pawning these items, niether one of these boy have that money. Another thing si she is so dear and sweet to you the best thing you can do for her is to get her away from Corey. He is a bigger part at things in her life and these boys then you guys think. He will ruin her life if she continuos to be around him. He will get his as well. And for the bf Josh wouldn't go there if I was you! He loved her so much he would have and still would do anything!

Posted by: William Location: Elkhart on Jun 25, 2008 at 10:38 AM
Depending on your views, you might disagree, but, I think it is a far worse offense to steal from that which was given to God. Is it worse than stealing from a local store? Maybe, maybe not. I think it is. When you steal from the church, you steal from every member of the congregation, including those who have very little to give. On the other hand, when you steal from the church, you steal from the very ones who should be mastering the art of forgiveness through generous grace. If I were the pastor or deacons of that church, I'd ask the judge to give these three teens to me. I'd forgive them AND put them to work - serving the very people they stole from. There should be appropriate punishment for the crime. Oh, and about judging ... God has equipped us to judge the actions of others, but not the heart of others. There's a difference! If I'm your boss and you come in an hour late, I must judge your actions -- maybe to the point of firing you, not an eternal condemnation, ok?

Posted by: Lucifer Location: Down Below on Jun 25, 2008 at 08:19 AM
I am sorry I sent the post claiming to be GOD. I have had a flash of guilt and thought I should admit it. It should be obvious though since the punctuation is messed up and of course GOD would never say something so evil. It makes me feel so good that even though all of you people would never commit these crimes you are still evil in your comments, words and judgements. Yeah you do follow me more than you realize!

Posted by: AA Location: Michiana on Jun 25, 2008 at 08:12 AM
hey guys I feel the boys families have been very supportive of their teens. They have also supported Abbie. Dont start name calling and bashing them. You do not know how this went down you were not there. All 3 have some blame in this. Josh is that a threat? I am glad you posted that. Big man! Do you think these boys have no familes cousins or supportors?Thinki again. Honestly do you think she wants you hurting him? I cant believe they did something this dumb but they did it! together! These boys have plenty of friends and family who love and support them and are planning to help them get through this and make permanent behavior changes. Teenagers will do anything for love how about instead of looking for blame we look to repair our teens. We dont need to tear the families apart over this we are not at war. We both want the same thing to save our teens. Lets stick to support for the families and screw these people with their judgements on these kids.

Posted by: Anon Location: Michiana on Jun 24, 2008 at 11:20 PM
I am shocked wndu would put someone claiming to be GOD on this post but not my last post. Didnt like that I named big celebs names who literally get away with murder....but yet our society wants these kids punished to the max with criminals who have done way worse rather than rehabilitate these teens and get them on the right track? disappointed with you wndu

Posted by: Daniel K Location: Mishawaka on Jun 24, 2008 at 10:29 PM
I know Abbie to be a very nice person. She would never do anything like this unless she was pressured by someone else. The two "kids" were the ones instigating the robbery. Remember, just because it says something in the paper or on the internet, does not make it fact. How many of us have made mistakes? Im sure all of us have. I'm just glad Abbie is okay and finally away from the god-awful control freak of a BF. Abbie is a sweet girl, and is loved by many peoople, I will stand behind her 100%.

Posted by: Josh Location: Granger on Jun 24, 2008 at 09:52 PM
To all these people who negatively bash on my cousin, she knows what she did wrong, but her dumb boyfriend wont be lucky once he sees people who want to make sure he suffers.

Posted by: Cousin Josh Location: Granger on Jun 24, 2008 at 09:46 PM
All you people do not know about the problems that Abby and her household have faced, yes theyre depressed, she lost her dad for goodness sake. But all you losers who bash on our family, shame on you and I hope you die in hell, I personally know the Gregory family who run St. Mark, and if they say they forgive, then they will. I know my cousin will pay for it in the long run, but for those who bash on our family deserve to go to hell...and shame on the media for making a bad namesake for our family, and putting this story on the air, havent they gone thru enough?? What the hell is this world coming to?....

Posted by: Anonymous on Jun 24, 2008 at 07:26 PM
Abbie's mom has said nothing on here. Do not bring her into this. You know nothing about the relationship Abbie was in, and you obviously do not know anyone in this situation. Go away jerk.

Posted by: south bend on Jun 24, 2008 at 06:43 PM
Stealing is a sin,but God IS THE Judge and if theese 3 repent they will be 4 given I'm a chistian but theese 3 need jail time to think about what they have done

Posted by: Nick Location: Florida on Jun 24, 2008 at 06:25 PM
I just wanted to say.. hahahaha!

Posted by: Anonymous Location: South Bend on Jun 24, 2008 at 06:19 PM
We at St Mark forgive them. Abby is welcome to our church anytime. We all make poor choices in life and thankfully we have a God that is bigger then us who will forgive. Just remember...he who is without sin can cast the first stone. There are a lot of stones being cast on this page.

Posted by: Todd Location: South Bend on Jun 24, 2008 at 06:11 PM
Anoymous, that is the stupidist thing I have ever seen on here. I know Abby and she has never been in jail before. She has never been in trouble with the law for that matter. You are just plain mean and uncalled for. I have known her for several years. Yes, she made a very poor choice. Yes, she will pay for that. Don't tear down a person you know nothing about.

Posted by: AUNTIE&SIS"17'S" on Jun 24, 2008 at 06:02 PM
FOR EVERYONE ON HERE WHO'S LEAVING STUPID COMMENTS ABOUT MY FAMILY...AGAIN WHO THE HECK ARE YOU TO JUDGE?? NOBODY'S PERFECT ARE WE?? I'M SURE EVERY LAST PERSON WHO HAD TO SPEAK THEIR MINDS ON A SITUATION THAT THEY KNOW NOTHING ABOUT HAS MADE PLENTY OF BAD CHOICES IN LIFE SO WHAT GIVES YOU THE RIGHT TO PASS JUDGMENT ON THE NEXT PERSON?? UNLESS YOUR GOD?? ARE YOU?? I KNOW EXACTLY HOW THESE BOYS WERE BROUGHT UP AND THIS IS NOT SOMETHING THEY WOULD DO ON THEIR OWN, THEIR GOOD KIDS, INTO SPORTS AND GETTING READY TO GRADUATE THIS COMING YEAR,SO FOR PEOPLE TO LEAVE HARSH COMMENTS NOT CARING ABOUT OTHERS FEELINGS IS A IGNORANT THING TO DO, WHAT GOES AROUND COMES AROUND..HOWS THAT FOR YOUR ETHIC'S.... WE HAVE A STRONG FAMILY AND WE'LL GET THROUGH THIS...I'LL PRAY FOR ALL OF YOU..YA SURE NEED IT..

Please do not post in all caps. Thank you - wndu.com

Posted by: Anon Location: Michiana on Jun 24, 2008 at 05:07 PM
For Mr Sarcasm ok expert on the bible heres one for ya John 7:24, "Stop judging by mere appearances, and make a right judgment." Hmm very appropriate verse since none of you know all the facts stop with your evil comments. Noone but those 3 and God knows what actually happened. So I guess the judge and jury will decide their fate. Maybe your actual judgement should be to not judge then you wont need to pray extra hard for being so hateful. Dont you believe the families of these teens are upset enough they dont need your mean comments. What do you want to send these 3 to prison with the rapist and murders and see the effect that has? Or should we try to rehabilitate them and save the youth. I mean Oj gets away w/murder rapists prostitutes they all walk freely. But lets really get the teens who are crying out for help. God help us!

Posted by: jeremiah Location: south bend on Jun 24, 2008 at 04:40 PM
WOW is all I can say about this!!! AWFUL thing to do,

Posted by: God Location: Heaven on Jun 24, 2008 at 04:24 PM
I' am tired of judging you idiots , Hope a group of your peers can find out what to do with you , thats what you get for stealing from me ......

Posted by: Anonymos Location: Michigan on Jun 24, 2008 at 04:16 PM
You are going to need alot of family support !!!!! You idiots !!!! You made the choice now time to pay . Keep on smiling , you are going to look good in those orange jump suits .

Posted by: Anonymous on Jun 24, 2008 at 04:14 PM
Abs...you belong in jail. And perhaps your mom does to. This will not be your first time there. I am willing to wager anything you will be a criminal for life. Congratulations. You will do nothing useful with your life but are destined to be a complete drag on everyone else. Your mom can make all the excuses for her poor parenting that she wants, but it is up to you on how to act. See ya in the headlines again soon, I'm sure.

Posted by: Cousin Allie Location: Edwardsburg on Jun 24, 2008 at 03:55 PM
Abs- You know i love you and i'm here if you need someone to talk to! Don't let these stupid and ridiculous comments bother you. Many of them don't even know anything about the situation other than what the news says. Yes you made a mistake but you'll learn from it. Love You!

Posted by: Anonymos Location: Michiana on Jun 24, 2008 at 03:48 PM
Forget the parents and everyones beliefs . These three need jail time , first time offense who cares , treat these two juveniles as adults and give them all equal punishment . Who could be so stupid to steal from a church and than sell the items to a known store. A jail cell would give them time to think before they act .

Posted by: Mr. Sarcasm on Jun 24, 2008 at 03:06 PM
I agree with 12:16. No one can judge but God. We've got to get rid of all judges and juries, because no human is qualified to decide guilt. Empty the jails. No one is guilty of anything ever again...unless people are misinterpretting Matthew 7:1. Oops. Maybe people should keep reading the chapter, instead of using one verse out of context.

Posted by: Anonymous on Jun 24, 2008 at 02:24 PM
For those of you judging without knowing, being judgmental is a sin, and a sin is a sin is a sin. No sin is bigger nor smaller than another. Think on that please.

Posted by: Anonymous on Jun 24, 2008 at 02:18 PM
Maybe she is just happy to be out of a relationship she was not enjoying and she knew no way to escape. I believe she is happy to be herself again, to be the person she was before the relationship.

Posted by: Anonymous on Jun 24, 2008 at 01:54 PM
my life hasn't turned out the way that I expected and I've lost a lot of people to tragedy but i take responsibility for my actions. i am also a spoiled brat...but I've never stolen from a church. There's no excuse for breaking the law. In any other country this would not be congratulated or excused. It is unacceptable that this is being glamorized or talked about in any way. Some of the youth in our country have become quite ungrateful. I'm sure they'll get off with a slap on the wrist.

Posted by: Samantha Location: Mishawak on Jun 24, 2008 at 01:36 PM
I think all of you should shut up and mind your own business. None of you really know the REAL story. There is only 1 God and he is a forgiving God, let him be the judge not you. I know everyone herd the saying "only God can judge me", so leave it alone. Until you know who Abbie really is and know what really happend shut up! She knows what she did was wrong and she is paying for that everyday. Abbie I love you and will be here for you every step of the way. Dont listen to these loosers who have nothing else to do with there lives but butt in everyone else's. If nobody has anything nice to say then shut up.

Posted by: lucy Location: south bend on Jun 24, 2008 at 12:48 PM
Anyone has the right to morally judge someone, not just GOD. Take an ethics class, you might learn a few things.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Elkhart on Jun 24, 2008 at 12:16 PM
Did the two boys and Abbie make a bad choice, YES. Are the people writing these comments God? NO!!! Only God can make judgement on people not you.

Posted by: Anon. Location: Michiana on Jun 24, 2008 at 12:02 PM
I know all 3 involved. Smantha noone is supporting their criminal kids Abbie and her boyfriend screwed up 1ST OFFENSE NOT CRIMINALS. Who are you to judge? These kids really screwed up big time. They need to be punished and also need help they really need serious counseling. The God I know is the only one that can judge " let he who hath no sin cast the first stone " I pray for all three families that these teens are punished and all 3 learn from this and make the right choices.

Posted by: Grandma B Location: Elkhart on Jun 24, 2008 at 10:40 AM
To those of you who are so quick to judge. Abbie is not a bad person. She lost her Dad to cancer at a young age, and I believe she is still suffering that loss, as our entire family is. Hopefully, this is a wakeup call for her and these two boys. We don't know why they chose to use the picture of her smiling. I know she is truly sorry for her bad choices, starting when she chose the wrong people to hang out with. We love you Abbie.

Posted by: mother on Jun 24, 2008 at 10:30 AM
To Samantha do you have children? How would you feel if the shoe was on the other foot? Would you try to help you child and stand by them even though you know what they did was wrong and just throw them under the bus and not care?? I assume you have no children and don't understand how it is to be a parent because you would not say the things you are saying. And to say we have no disregard for others when you don't even know these familys is totaly rediculous for you to say. Some kids that get in trouble come from the best of families. Again these are children who made bad choices and need to learn from them. No one was laughing at anything she was very upset and crying and they tried to make her smile and stop the crying before they took her picture and it just came out that way.

Posted by: Mom of 17 yr old on Jun 24, 2008 at 09:10 AM
To Anonymous just to let you know I know my son is no Saint. No child is for that matter, but just so you know how he was before getting involved in this relationship he was a child involved in sports since a young boy and was a good student as well. He was very close with his family. He is a good boy in his heart just made a few bad decissions over the past year in a half. I know as well that Abbie was a good girl. Never said she wasn't. I love my son and will do my part as his mother to help him fix this bump in the road and get him back on the track he once was on. To Mary no the other two boys have not been released nor do I think any of them should be. How would they have learned from this with just a slap on the rist and a weekend in Jail. When he does come home grounded yes he will be, but also he will be loved and supported from his family and we will be there to get his life back on track with his family and the lord. I pray for all of us going through this right now.

Posted by: mishawaka Location: mishawaka on Jun 24, 2008 at 08:54 AM
can u say crack head

Posted by: Mom of 17yr Old on Jun 24, 2008 at 08:53 AM
I never in my comment blamed Abbie for this just to clarify. All 3 of these kids have equal blame on this whole situation. No one was forced to do this. This was a bad choice on all parts. To Brad communication is the key. If there are things my son has done why not communicate with the parents so I can get a handle on his doing. That I don't understand. I have tried to have full communication with this whole relationship. I have warned my son and Abbie that there actions will put them in trouble if they had not staightend up. The thing we have been telling them has come true Abbie would go to jail and my son would go to juvy because he is still a child. I have tried and tried to get my son straight, we even moved to another town because I know this relationship was bound for this. Again my son was only 15 when they started dating and she was almost an adult. No one put the blame on just 1 person here everyone needs to realize there was 3 involved and 3 guilty for this.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Mishawaka on Jun 23, 2008 at 09:18 PM
I have known Abbie since she was born and know that she is a nice young lady who has made a very poor choice. Her poor choice does not have to do with her parents' method of discipline or upbringing. Instead, her poor choice was made because of a lapse in her usually good judgement and because of the influence of the others involved. The Mom of 17 has painted a negative picture of Abbie without explaining the actions of her own son (FYI he is not a saint). I know that Abbie will learn from this huge mistake, serve her punishment, and, hopefully, continue with her college education and become a productive member of society. Our prayers are with all involved and their families.

Posted by: smantha Location: south bend on Jun 23, 2008 at 08:33 PM
Very often we see family members come out here in support of their criminal kids. It just goes to show the total disregard these people have for others. Your kid is a dirty felon who steals from God and then laughs about it. SICK.

Posted by: Brad Location: South Bend on Jun 23, 2008 at 06:31 PM
Abbie too was raised in the church. She was a very nice girl. She lost her dad to cancer six or seven years ago and that totally shook up her live. Mom of 17...don't blame it totally on her. I know for a fact that there are things you don't know about your son. You might want to check in on him a little more and his activities.

Posted by: Mike Location: Elkhart on Jun 23, 2008 at 05:33 PM
My guess is that she doesn't fully grasp the gravity of what she has done. It's not that she's

Posted by: South Bend Location: Indiana on Jun 23, 2008 at 05:32 PM
The devil is really busy

Posted by: Christina Location: Osceola on Jun 23, 2008 at 05:00 PM
For one our family does believe in spanking's and for those who don't know the situation or the people involved keep your comments to yourself...

Posted by: Mom of 17yr old on Jun 23, 2008 at 04:47 PM
They two boys involved in this crime where raised in church. Not sure what went wrong here but these boys not abbie are as bad as theya re put off. I love you son and I know you belong there for now to learn your lesson, I just hope you do learn from it. Abbie I don't undertand while you are smiling like that. This is very serious and is really hurting our family. These boys where involved in there youth group at church just so those of you who want ot know and for Lauren I do beleive in spankings and discipline. He will get even more when he gets home. Just realize when you think your children our on the right track in life it comes to something like this to rethink how you feel about your parenting. Any child can go do wrong it is just learning from your wrongs.

Posted by: Mary Location: Mishawaka on Jun 23, 2008 at 04:31 PM
I am anxious to see how this plays out. Abbie is already out of jail on bond, and I am sure mommy and daddy have the other two home by now. What are you going to do now parents, ground them?, take away their computers, cell phones, tv, cars? These people have absoultely no morals, standards, or feelings for any person or any thing except themselves. I hope the prosecutor and a judge lock you up and leave you there for a very long time. You three are a picture of everything that is wrong with the youth of today and I thank God not everyone is like you.

Posted by: T Location: SB on Jun 23, 2008 at 04:12 PM
What a smart-as*. Hope she likes the public crapper in prison.

Posted by: Joe Location: Up North on Jun 23, 2008 at 03:47 PM
Steals from a church and she is smiling!

Posted by: Anonymous on Jun 23, 2008 at 03:38 PM
How low do you have to be to still from a church? That is just wrong!!

Posted by: Anonymous on Jun 23, 2008 at 03:16 PM
Abbe will get plenty of love in prison, where she belongs. The little brat...look at that smile. A little to used to get whatever she wants whenever she wants.

Posted by: Israel Location: Goshen on Jun 23, 2008 at 03:03 PM
People have no fear of GOD these days... Jesus is Coming Soon!!

Posted by: mel Location: mishawaka on Jun 23, 2008 at 02:49 PM
well, i love you abbie!

Posted by: Lauren Location: Elkhart on Jun 23, 2008 at 02:42 PM
Stealing is never right, but to steal from a church, that is really low...as bad as stealing from a cemetary. Wonder if the parents of these thieves believed in spankings or the wonderful new age "TIME OUT".