![Church member charged in 'Vote Trump' arson [UPDATE]](https://storage.googleapis.com/blavitynews/images/fallback.jpg "Church member charged in 'Vote Trump' arson [UPDATE]")
On November 2, a historically black church in Greenville, Mississippi was set on fire and spray-painted with the words, “Vote Trump.” The burning of Hopewell Baptist Church made national headlines just days before the presidential election. A church member is now charged with the crime.
Andrew McClinton, who will make a court appearance on Thursday, is charged with first-degree arson of a place of worship. The 45 year old has a criminal record including a seven year prison sentence for armed robbery.
Mississippi insurance commissioner and fire marshal Mike Chaney told the Associated Press, “We do not believe it was politically motivated. There may have been some efforts to make it appear politically motivated.”
Because of the irreparable damage, Hopewell congregants have been welcomed to worship with a nearby congregation. James Nichols, the senior pastor at First Baptist, said the Hopewell members are welcome to stay as long as they need a home.
Officials have not established a motive for the fire.
