LEONARDTOWN, MD – A man is facing multiple charges after disrupting Christmas Eve services at two St. Mary’s County churches, alarming parishioners and endangering public safety. Thomas Campbell Bolling Von Goetz, 56, of Avenue, was arrested on December 26, 2024, following the incidents.
Disturbances at Two Churches
The first disruption occurred at Holy Angels Catholic Church in Avenue on December 24, shortly after 5 p.m. Von Goetz entered the church during Mass and dropped an onion in the aisle, disturbing the service. A concerned parishioner followed him outside to ensure he was leaving the premises. Once outside, Von Goetz escalated the situation by assaulting the parishioner, throwing tangerines at them.
Later that evening, during Midnight Mass at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Leonardtown, Von Goetz caused a more serious disturbance. He poured whiskey into the church’s holy water and issued threats to harm parishioners. As attendees intervened to remove him from the premises, Von Goetz attempted to strike several individuals with a whiskey bottle. Parishioners managed to detain him until deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office arrived. He was then transported to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital for medical evaluation.
Charges Filed
On December 26, deputies arrested Von Goetz, charging him with the following offenses:
- Second-Degree Assault
- Disorderly Conduct
- Defacing Religious Property
- Religious Crime Against a Group
- Obstructing a Religious Exercise
- Threat of Mass Violence
- Disturbing the Peace
Von Goetz is currently being held at the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center, awaiting an appearance before a District Court Commissioner.
Community Reaction and Legal Implications
The incidents have shocked the local community, particularly given the timing during Christmas Eve services. Disrupting a religious gathering is a serious offense, with Maryland laws providing enhanced penalties for crimes targeting religious institutions or groups.
The Sheriff’s Office has emphasized its commitment to maintaining safety and order, particularly in places of worship. Officials encourage the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior.
Public Assistance
Authorities have not disclosed a possible motive for Von Goetz’s actions. Anyone with additional information about these incidents is urged to contact the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office.
