Orange County deputies arrested an Alabama man for allegedly threatening St. Michael's Abbey in Silverado Canyon.

Investigators said 38-year-old Joshua Michael Richardson initially sent his threats through email before visiting the church and making more threats in person, according to the Orange County Sheriff's Department. Deputies arrested Richardson at the Santa Monica Pier after a priest called 911 following his visit to St. Michael's Abbey on Aug. 28.

OCSD said Richardson did not have a criminal history. Investigators are trying to determine a motivation for the threats.

"We are grateful to the authorities for their quick action in ensuring the safety of our parish community," the Diocese of Orange wrote in a statement. "In today's environment of increased threats against churches

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