Fairfield County, OH – Two suspects have been indicted following a multi-week investigation into a series of church break-ins across Fairfield County, authorities announced Thursday, May 7.
According to the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation began after deputies responded to a reported burglary on March 29, 2026, where electronics were stolen from a church. Additional incidents were reported on April 12, involving stolen electronics and musical instruments. In total, four churches across the county were targeted.
Detectives used surveillance footage from the churches to identify individuals entering the buildings and removing property. Investigators also tracked a suspect vehicle and identified one individual who had allegedly pawned items consistent with those reported stolen.
Authorities said William Lee Whitehead, of Dayton, was taken into custody on April 17 without incident. A second suspect, Jonathon L. Schneider, of Lancaster, was later identified as part of the investigation.
On Monday, May 5, 2026, the Fairfield County Grand Jury returned indictments against both men. Whitehead faces multiple felony charges, including breaking and entering, possession of criminal tools, theft, weapons under disability, and receiving stolen property, along with misdemeanor theft counts. Schneider faces multiple felony counts, including breaking and entering, possession of criminal tools, and theft.
A significant amount of stolen property has been recovered, according to investigators. Officials noted that additional charges may be filed as the case continues.
Anyone with further information is asked to contact the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office.
