Man admits to torching Jesus statue

The plea comes after a bumpy judicial process in which he declined plea bargains twice, was mentally evaluated and tried unsuccessfully to fire his court-appointed attorney.

McCoy has a history of psychiatric issues, according to police. He was well known by parishioners and employees of St. Bruno's Catholic Church at 555 San Bruno Ave. because he frequently went there to pray.

On Nov. 15, McCoy allegedly left the church premises, bought some gasoline and returned with an intent to destroy the life-size statue of Jesus. With a catechism class of 20 children under way nearby, he reportedly pried open the statue's Plexiglas case and doused it with gasoline just before 9:30 a.m. He allegedly ignited the statue but fled when somebody spotted him in the act. He was quickly identified and apprehended by San Bruno police. McCoy told police he believed the ceramic statue of Jesus in the parking lot was cursed and had a high fever.

Damage was estimated to be about $1,000 by church officials. The statue was sent off-site for repairs.

McCoy initially pleaded not guilty and, after a preliminary hearing on the evidence in December, was sent to trial. Prosecutors offered McCoy a plea bargain afterward but he opted for trial.

McCoy then had criminal proceedings against him halted once when his court-appointed attorney questioned his competency. Two doctors confirmed that McCoy was able to aid in his own defense and McCoy then tried unsuccessfully to fire his attorney, Connie O'Brien.

McCoy has no criminal record but does have a history of psychiatric issues, authorities said.

He remains in custody in lieu of $1 million bail at San Mateo County Jail until his June 22 sentencing.

Michelle Durand can be reached by e-mail: michelle@smdailyjournal.com or by phone: (650) 344-5200 ext. 104. What do you think of this story? Send a letter to the editor: letters@smdailyjournal.com.