Magna, Utah – The Angel Moroni statue stolen from the Salt Lake City LDS temple has been recovered.
The statue was removed from the Utah temple just before dusk last night. A heavily modified drone with laser cutting abilities was used to remove Moroni from the top of the building.
The golden angel was found in the garage of Magna resident Russell Jackson.
Jackson, 45, a local meth addict, has an extensive criminal record. Jackson’s criminal history includes “Theft, public lewdness, domestic violence and assault.” He also has a history of fighting with police officers.
He was arrested today at his Magna home. Jackson has been charged with grand theft, destruction of private property and criminal mischief. He also admitted to stealing items from a local Walmart located in West Valley City, Utah to commit the crime. Items included a drone, a plunger, wire, a laser pointer and miscellaneous tools. He now faces additional charges for shoplifting, modifying a cat toy laser pointing device and using a drone that has not been registered with the FAA.
The Brine Shrimp had a chance to do a brief interview with Jackson.
When we asked “What motivated you to take the statue?”Jackson replied “I needed money for meth, PBR, a mullet haircut and a good ol’ fashion Magna swing party!”
“The statue has some extensive damage but can be repaired.” Said, LDS Church Spokesman – Nephi Hyrum Smith
Jackson removed a good size chunk of the statue and whittled himself some golden teeth. Jackson planned on melting the statue down and making bikes for his small home-based business. Jackson’s business “Tricked Out Tweak Bikes'” Is quite popular with the local Magna meth community.
“I hope the Mormons will forgive me. Us, Tweakers are a lot like Mormons. We both like to ride bikes and go on missions.” Said, Jackson
He was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail and bail was set at 100,000,000 dollars.
Magna Juggalos have setup a go fund me page and plans on having a fundraiser with an ICP cover band to raise the bail money.
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