Thu. Oct 9th, 2025

A man has been arrested in connection with a burglary at First Christian Church, located in the 1200 block of Main Street, according to the Huntington Beach Police Department.

A church employee confronted the suspect in the early hours of Sunday, August 17, 2025, after a witness observed him forcing entry into the building.

The suspect claimed to be a worker responding to a power outage and was wearing equipment and carrying tools consistent with an electrician. The employee became suspicious when it was confirmed there was no power outage. After being escorted from the building, the suspect fled in a vehicle.

Detectives from the Huntington Beach Police Department analyzed evidence collected from the crime scene and identified it as belonging to Juan Carlos Montiel, who also matched the suspect’s description seen in surveillance video. The investigation further revealed Montiel’s involvement in multiple church burglaries throughout Southern California, using a similar method of operation by posing as an electrical contractor to steal from churches.

On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, detectives from the HBPD Investigation Division located and arrested Montiel in connection with the burglary.

Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact detectives at crimetips@hbpd.org.

Juan Carlos Montiel, arrested in connection with the burglary at First Christian Church in Huntington Beach, is facing multiple charges under California law. Based on the nature of the crime and recent legal updates, here are the potential penalties he could face:

  • Second-Degree Burglary (Commercial Burglary):
    Since the burglary occurred at a church (a non-residential building), this is classified as second-degree burglary.
    • If charged as a felony: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in county jail.
    • If charged as a misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail.
  • Impersonation of a Worker (Potential Fraud or False Representation):
    Posing as an electrician may lead to additional charges such as false impersonation or fraud.
    • These can carry penalties ranging from fines to jail time, depending on the specific statute applied and prior criminal history.
  • Organized Theft or Repeat Offenses:
    If Montiel is linked to multiple church burglaries across Southern California, prosecutors may pursue enhanced charges under California’s 2025 theft laws.
    • Organized retail theft or coordinated property crimes: These are now permanent felony offenses under Penal Code 490.4.
    • Sentencing enhancements: Additional prison time may be added based on the total value of stolen property or repeat offenses.
  • Vandalism (if property was damaged during entry):
    • Misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the extent of damage.
    • Penalties range from fines to up to 3 years in jail.
  • Permanent Criminal Record:
    A conviction could result in a felony record, affecting employment, housing, and other civil rights.

Montiel’s arrest log confirms charges of commercial burglary, vandalism, and identity-related offenses. The case is currently under investigation, and further charges may be added depending on the evidence and scope of his activities.

By Art Pedroza

Our Editor, Art Pedroza, worked at the O.C. Register and the OC Weekly and studied journalism at CSUF and UCI. He has lived in Santa Ana for over 30 years and has served on several city and county commissions. When he is not writing or editing Pedroza specializes in risk control and occupational safety. He also teaches part time at Cerritos College and CSUF. Pedroza has an MBA from Keller University.

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