BLUEFIELD, WV (LOOTPRESS) — A series of burglaries targeting an old church building has unraveled a broader theft and drug-fueled crime ring, leading to multiple arrests and a continuing investigation by the Bluefield Police Department.
On May 19, 2025, Patrolman S.D. Copenhaver responded to a call regarding stolen property at 1415 Bland Street, the site of The Greater Tabernacle of Faith. The property’s owner, Anderson Martin, reported that numerous antique items had been taken from inside the church, which was undergoing plans for renovation.
Police believe the suspects gained entry through an unsecured basement door and forced their way into the church. Mr. Martin later provided a list of stolen items, which included antique lamps, heaters, a drum set, furniture, and copper piping.
The investigation quickly led officers to suspect Frankie Pennington, who was tied to similar cases being worked by other officers. Interviews with Jessica Scott, Pennington’s girlfriend, revealed he had been stealing from the church to support his drug habit—often using a dolly and chain to haul off items. She also identified Herman Hancock as an accomplice.
A trailer containing stolen furniture was discovered near the church and traced back to Hancock’s father. Additional items were later found at the end of Hancock’s family driveway.
On June 8, Pennington was taken into custody at his Preston Street apartment and admitted to breaking into the church at least eight times, often with Hancock and another accomplice, James Garrett. The group allegedly scrapped stolen copper at Princeton Recycle, profiting over $1,000 to fund their addictions. Pennington also admitted to multiple car break-ins around Bluefield and a separate home burglary involving stolen tools.
Warrants have been issued for eight counts of entering without breaking, conspiracy, grand larceny, burglary, and petit larceny against Pennington. Similar charges are being pursued against Hancock and Garrett.
Garrett later turned himself in to police and confirmed his involvement, admitting to participating in at least four break-ins at the church. He also confessed to possessing a stolen firearm, despite a prior felony conviction that prohibits him from having weapons. He gave officers consent to search his home, where a loaded firearm and more stolen items were recovered.
Police were also led to a stash location on Vine Street, where more of the church’s stolen property was found.
The case remains an active investigation, with more charges expected as officers continue to recover property and connect additional suspects to the theft ring.
