Alabama Man Joshua Michael Richardson Arrested for Threats Against California’s St. Michael’s Abbey

By Ronald Rodriguez Last updated Sep 4, 2025

Orange County, CA – An alarming security incident unfolded recently when Joshua Michael Richardson, a man from Alabama, was arrested after making threats against St. Michael’s Abbey in California. Authorities detained Richardson following a swift investigation triggered by threatening emails and an in-person appearance at the monastery armed with weapons and tactical gear.

This incident not only highlighted the growing concerns surrounding threats to religious institutions but also emphasized the effectiveness of quick law enforcement response and community vigilance in preventing potential violence.

The Threat Emerges: From Emails to an Armed Visit

The situation began escalating on August 28, when the Orange County Sheriff’s Department received reports of threatening emails sent by Richardson to St. Michael’s Abbey. Investigators described the language used in these emails as clearly threatening.

What intensified the alarm was Richardson’s decision to travel all the way from Alabama to Southern California, arriving at the abbey on the very same day he drove in, armed and equipped with:

Brass knuckles
Knives
High-capacity magazines
Body armor

A priest at the abbey who encountered Richardson promptly alerted the sheriff’s department two days after the visit. Responding quickly, deputies located and detained Richardson without incident.

“It is believed Richardson arrived in California on the same day he went to the abbey,” noted Sgt. Gerard McCann of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.

Charges Filed and Law Enforcement’s Swift Response

Following Richardson’s arrest, the Orange County District Attorney’s Office formally charged him on September 1 with:

Possession of brass knuckles
Carrying a concealed dagger
Possession of a large-capacity magazine
Making criminal threats

Richardson was booked into Orange County Jail. The Sheriff’s department also conducted a thorough search of his vehicle, where the weapons and tactical gear were discovered.

Jarryd Gonzales, spokesperson for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange, expressed gratitude towards local law enforcement for their rapid action:

“The Diocese of Orange has been made aware of a threat directed toward St. Michael’s Abbey. Local law enforcement responded swiftly, and a suspect has been apprehended. We are grateful to the authorities for their quick action in ensuring the safety of our parish community.”

Heightened Security and Community Vigilance

In light of this incident, which comes amid rising threats to churches nationwide—including the recent shooting at Annunciation Church in Minneapolis—the sheriff’s office has increased patrols around St. Michael’s Abbey, a sprawling 320-acre former ranch. The abbey has also bolstered its private security measures.

Orange County Sheriff’s officials stressed the community’s role in preventing such incidents:

“While incidents like this can feel unsettling, they also highlight the power of community. If something seems off, say something. Trust your instincts and report suspicious activity, whether it is a strange message, unusual behavior, or something that does not sit right. Your call could stop a crime before it happens.”

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities urge anyone with relevant information to contact the Orange County Sheriff’s Department at 714-647-7000. For further information, see the full report at New York Post.

Key Takeaways

Joshua Michael Richardson was arrested following threatening emails and a visit to St. Michael’s Abbey armed with weapons.
Charged with multiple counts including possession of brass knuckles and making criminal threats, Richardson was booked without incident.
The arrest underscores critical concerns about the safety of religious institutions in the U.S.
Heightened security and patrols have been implemented at the abbey in response to the threat.
Community members are urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity promptly.

What do you think about this incident and the measures taken to protect religious institutions? Have you ever visited a historic abbey like St. Michael’s? Share your thoughts in the comments below!