A Lindenhurst man has been accused of repeatedly targeting a donation box at a beloved Manorville Catholic shrine, allegedly stealing money intended to support the religious landmark and its mission.
Piotr Nerkowski, 49, was arrested following an investigation into a series of thefts at the Shrine of Our Lady of the Island, a well-known spiritual destination on Eastport Manor Road.
According to Suffolk County Police, detectives from the Major Case Unit investigated multiple incidents in which cash was allegedly stolen from a donation box at the shrine during several nights between March 29 and April 19.
Authorities said Nerkowski was taken into custody at a CVS Pharmacy in Lindenhurst after detectives, working alongside the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, identified him as the suspect.
Police charged Nerkowski with Grand Larceny in the Third Degree, Attempted Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree, Resisting Arrest and two counts of Criminal Mischief in the Fourth Degree.
Investigators allege the thefts targeted donations made by visitors to the shrine, which has served as a center of Catholic prayer, Marian devotion and spiritual reflection for decades.
Nestled on more than 100 acres in Manorville, the Shrine of Our Lady of the Island attracts worshippers from across Long Island and beyond. The site was established by the Montfort Fathers and is known for its peaceful grounds, religious retreats and towering statue of the Virgin Mary.
Nerkowski was held overnight at Suffolk County's Third Precinct and was scheduled to be arraigned Thursday at First District Court in Central Islip.
The charges are accusations, and Nerkowski is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
For many faithful visitors, the allegations struck close to home, as the donations help support the operation and preservation of one of Long Island’s most cherished religious destinations.