An Alabama man, Joshua Michael Richardson, has been arrested for allegedly threatening a Catholic monastery in Orange County, California. Richardson, 38, claimed to be "Michael the Angel of Death" and sent threatening emails to St. Michael's Abbey in Silverado Canyon, stating he intended to "do the Lord's reaping" at the monastery.
On August 19, Richardson emailed the abbey, calling himself the "rider of the pale horse," a reference to the Book of Revelation. He announced his plans to travel from Alabama to the abbey, which celebrates Michaelmas, the Feast of St. Michael, on September 29. According to the Los Angeles Times, Richardson arrived at the abbey on August 26, attended a service, and followed a priest into a private area, reiterating his intent to "separate the weak from the weeds."
Authorities arrested Richardson on August 28 after receiving reports of his threats. A search of his vehicle revealed six high-capacity gun magazines, brass knuckles, a sword, knives, a stun gun, and other tactical gear. However, no firearms or ammunition were found. Richardson has been charged with felony criminal threats and possession of illegal weapons. He is currently held without bail and is scheduled for arraignment on Thursday (September 5).
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer emphasized the seriousness of the threats, stating, "A threat on one house of worship is an attack on every place of worship." The arrest highlights the importance of community vigilance in reporting suspicious activities, as noted by the Orange County Sheriff's Department.