Pastor Trained in Martial Arts Subdues Axe-Wielding Burglar at California Church

Pastor Nick Neves used his Brazilian jiu-jitsu skills to restrain a burglar who broke into his Antioch church on Thanksgiving morning.

Pastor Nick Neves confronted a burglar armed with an axe after responding to a security alarm at First Family Church in Antioch, California, early Thanksgiving morning.
The burglar had smashed a church window to gain entry and was attempting to flee with stolen items when Neves stopped him and placed him under a citizen's arrest.
Using his martial arts training, Neves restrained the suspect in a physical struggle that lasted nearly 15 minutes until police arrived and took the man into custody.
The suspect caused several thousand dollars in property damage and is expected to face charges including burglary, robbery, and battery.
Despite the incident, Neves expressed no ill will toward the suspect and said he would welcome him back to the church to attend a service and hear the gospel.