The man accused of desecrating Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church last week openly cried during his arraignment on Monday, claiming he suffered from drug-induced psychosis.
James Stoltenberg, 67, who moved to Colusa from Oroville about eight months ago, said he is a “simpleton,” who has been disabled most of his adult life.
“My life is over; that’s all I know,” said Stoltenberg, who doubled over and placed his head on his knees as he wept.
Just as the proceeding began, Superior Court Judge Jeffrey A. Thompson had Stoltenberg removed from the courtroom until he regained his composure.
Stoltenberg is accused of breaking into the church on Oct. 25 and causing about $50,000 in damages, although many of the historical artifacts inside the 142-year-old church were priceless to the congregation, including the marble baptismal font, which has had its place in the church since 1924, officials said.
Stoltenberg reportedly broke into the church around 10 AM, unlocked the side doors, exited the church and returned about 20 minutes later and began the destruction, which included carving obscenities into the altar, damaging statues and the choir loft, throwing the tabernacle, and strewing Eucharist across the floor.
A parishioner discovered the damages immediately upon entering the church around 4 PM the same day the vandalism occurred.
Stoltenberg was identified from surveillance footage and arrested around 2:45 PM on Oct. 27, said Colusa Police Lt. Sara Martin.
Stoltenberg, who is charged with felony burglary and felony vandalism, is also charged with committing a hate crime, which could add three years to his sentence, if convicted.
“This is more than a property crime,” said Colusa County District Attorney Matthew Beauchamp, who reported that Stoltenberg believed the Catholic church was fake. “This is a crime against the institution.”
After regaining some composure and returning to the courtroom, Stoltenberg said he understood the charges and the proceedings, but repeatedly spoke over Superior Court Judge Jeffrey A. Thompson, who was patient with the distraught man, but cautioned him against self-incrimination.
“I just want to tell my story; I want to tell the truth,” Stoltenberg argued.
“The truth is often incriminating,” Thompson replied, reminding Stoltenberg of his right to remain silent.
Although Stoltenberg does not have a violent criminal history, Thompson denied releasing him from the Colusa County Jail on his own recognizance, due to possible compulsive behavior that could pose a risk to the public.
Thompson appointed Public Defender Albert Smith to represent him.
Stoltenberg, who requested a speedy trial, will appear in court on Nov. 9 to enter a plea. ■