The Orange County Sheriff’s Department arrested an Alabama man who deputies said showed up armed with brass knuckles, knives, high-capacity magazines, and body armor after allegedly making threats against a Catholic monastery in California.

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department said deputies detained Joshua Michael Richardson late last month following reports of threatening emails he sent to St. Michael’s Abbey. Investigators said the emails, reported on August 28, contained language interpreted as threatening. 

The situation escalated when investigators said Richardson drove from Alabama to Southern California and showed up in person at the abbey, where deputies said he made additional threats. A priest who encountered Richardson notified the sheriff’s department two days later, triggering a swift investigation.

Sergeant Gerard McCann told the Orange County Register that it is believed Richardson made the drive from Alabama and arrived in California on the same day he went to the abbey.

Officers set up barriers after a shooting at Annunciation Church, which is also home to an elementary school, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S. on Aug. 27, 2025.  (Reuters/Ben Brewer)

Sheriff’s officials stressed the importance of community vigilance.

“While incidents like this can feel unsettling, they also highlight the power of community,” officials said. “If something seems off, say something. Trust your instincts and report suspicious activity, whether it is a strange message, unusual behavior, or something that does not sit right. Your call could stop a crime before it happens.”

The investigation remains active, and authorities urged anyone with relevant information to contact the Orange County Sheriff’s Department at 714-647-7000.

Fox News Digital reached out to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office for comment. 

Stepheny Price covers crime including missing persons, homicides and migrant crime. Story tips: stepheny.price@fox.com.