Man Arrested for Disrupting a Sacrament Meeting

A disturbing incident occurred on Sunday, May 18, at a chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Gallatin, Missouri, when a man disrupted a sacrament meeting claiming to be a prophet and founder of the Church.

According to KCTV5, the suspect was identified as Dusten C. Sloan, 25, of Rayville, Missouri. Authorities arrested him later that day after he made threats of violence at the religious building.

A situation that escalated rapidly

It all began when Sloan was asked to remove his hat during the service. According to witnesses, his behavior turned aggressive as he demanded to be given the sacrament. When asked to leave, he began shouting, throwing objects, and claiming he should be baptized immediately.

While being escorted from the building, Sloan allegedly threatened to return and shoot up the meetinghouse. An off-duty sheriff’s deputy, who was attending the meeting, attempted to calm him down, but the threats continued. As a precaution, the members were brought back into the building for their safety.

Arrest and worrying behavior

By the time officers arrived, Sloan had fled. However, he was located shortly afterward during a traffic stop. Upon his arrest, he claimed to be the Prophet Joseph Smith.

During his arrest, Sloan showed signs of mental disturbance: he partially undressed and attempted to self-harm. He was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Charges and consequences

According to court documents, Dusten Sloan faces charges of terroristic threats, a felony, as well as disturbing the peace and disrupting a religious service, both misdemeanors.

He has not yet been issued a bond, and there is no official court date yet. If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $12,000.

A reminder about security and faith

This incident highlights the importance of maintaining security in places of worship and the need to discern between genuine faith and disruptive behavior that may put others at risk. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has no affiliation with this individual and does not endorse his claims.

Source:  KCTV5