Katy church burglarized after Sunday service, nearly $15,000 stolen

Harvest Katy Church was left without most of its sound system after a burglar got inside the Katy congregation’s building just hours after Sunday service and stole equipment worth nearly $15,000. The theft hit a church that depends on audio gear for worship, youth programs and community events, forcing staff and volunteers to figure out what can be replaced before the next gathering.

The burglary happened July 5 around 4:30 p.m. on church property along Franz Road near Fry Road. Surveillance video shows a man walking around the property before breaking in through a back door, using a screwdriver to remove the deadbolt and force the door open.

Senior Pastor Kris Jenkins said the thief went straight to the sanctuary and took two large subwoofers, a keyboard, a digital sound board, monitor speakers, microphones and personal monitors. Jenkins estimated the total loss at nearly $15,000. He said the equipment had only been in use for about six months, after a period when the church sometimes worshiped with an iPad and instruments.

The sound system is used for weekly worship, sermons, music and announcements, and Jenkins said it also supports youth programs and community events. Replacing specialized equipment can take time and affect more than the sanctuary, especially when volunteers are trying to keep the week’s schedule moving.

People with information about the burglary are asked to call the Harris County Sheriff's Office at 713-221-6000.