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4h ago

Alabama Man Held Without Bail Over Threats to O.C. Abbey After Cross-Country Trip

A judge ordered Joshua Michael Richardson jailed after prosecutors cited apocalyptic threats and a cache of illegal gear discovered by investigators.

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The design of St. Michael’s Abbey is inspired by an abbey in the south of France. (Courtesy of St. Michael’s Abbey)
Church at St. Michael’s Abbey in Trabuco Canyon. (Courtesy: Hoffman Co.)

Overview

  • Prosecutors filed charges including felony criminal threats and possession of six large‑capacity magazines, brass knuckles and a sword, with no firearms recovered.
  • Authorities say Richardson emailed St. Michael’s Abbey on Aug. 19 using Revelation-themed language and then appeared in person on Aug. 26 to issue additional threats.
  • Deputies arrested him in Santa Monica on Aug. 28 after a priest reported the encounter, and a search of his vehicle turned up body armor, knives, a stun gun, duct tape, rope, radios and other tactical items.
  • Officials say Richardson traveled from Alabama and described himself as the 'rider of the pale horse' and 'Michael the Angel of Death,' with references to the abbey’s Sept. 29 Michaelmas observance.
  • He is being held in Orange County Jail as the investigation continues, with increased patrols at the monastery and authorities urging the public to report suspicious activity.