Sheriff Grady Judd Urges Church Security Plans After Michigan Active Shooter Incident

Staff Reporter | iSkyNews.com (ISC News)

Published June 22nd, 2025

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Sheriff Grady Judd Urges Vigilance at Houses of Worship After Michigan Church Shooting

POLK COUNTY, FL — In the wake of a horrifying active-shooter incident at a Michigan church Sunday morning, Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd is calling on all houses of worship in Florida and across the nation to stay alert and be prepared for potential threats.

The warning follows a shooting at Crosspoint Community Church in Wayne, Michigan, where an armed individual opened fire on congregants during Sunday services. In response, Sheriff Judd emphasized the importance of having a safety and security plan in place before tragedy strikes.

“This morning’s active shooter at a church in Wayne, Michigan reminds us that all of our houses of worship must have a safety and security plan to immediately respond to an active shooter,” said Sheriff Judd.

He urged worshippers and leadership alike to take responsibility for their community’s safety:

“Does your house of worship have a plan to protect and immediately stop an active shooter? If the answer is no, ask why not?”

Sheriff Judd said it's imperative that churches, synagogues, and mosques alike have a structured plan in place and trained individuals ready to respond. He encouraged all congregants to speak up if they see or hear anything suspicious and to contact their house of worship’s security or local law enforcement immediately.

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POSELUDE TO PRIORY: LIVING WATER FELLOWSHIP INCIDENT (Dec 30, 2014)
In a separate but thematically relevant incident on Pleasant Hill Road in Poinciana, FL, a violent exchange occurred at Living Water Fellowship Church. During a morning meeting to terminate a long‑time maintenance worker—identified as Benjamin Parangan Jr., 47—the situation escalated when Parangan pulled a handgun and fired at Pastor Terry Howell, barely missing him. The pastor, who had a concealed‑weapons permit, returned fire, striking Parangan, who was critically wounded and later charged with aggravated assault with intent to kill.

The church’s childcare facility, housing about 16 children, was unaffected, and no one else was injured. Both men held legal permits, and law enforcement classified the pastor’s actions as self‑defense

Free Training Available

For nearly a decade, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office has provided free Active Assailant Preparation Training to churches, mosques, synagogues, and businesses. The training outlines how to prepare for an active threat situation, respond effectively, and coordinate with law enforcement once they arrive on the scene.

Interested parties can contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Office to schedule training:
📧 crimeprevention@polksheriff.org
📞 863-298-6677

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