STOLEN CHURCH STATUES LOCATED; CHOPPED UP FOR SCRAP METAL

Two metal statues ripped from a downtown Denver church were recovered after being cut to pieces for scrap.

The thief, who was traveling by skateboard, used a variety of tools to pry them from their bases outside Holy Ghost church at 1900 California Street before dawn March 4.

The statues represent St. Rita and St. Paul.

"The statues were located but were already cut up to be sold for their metal value," according to church officials. Damage is estimated at $4,000.

There was no word on arrests.

[Photo: Holy Ghost Church]