Joseph Jakubowski manhunt: Churches, schools on alert as police step up search

Churches and schools were on high alert as authorities in Wisconsin stepped up its manhunt for a man suspected of stealing firearms from a gun store and threatening to carry out an attack intensified Sunday.

The Rock County Sheriff’s Office said Joseph Jakubowski, 32, expressed anti-religious views in a 161-page manifesto he sent to President Trump. Police increased patrols near Janesville churches, although investigators said there was no specific threat.

Authorities have also contacted area school districts to caution them about the search for Jakubowski so they can take precautionary measures, the Rock County Sheriff’s Office said. Many Rock County schools are on spring break in the upcoming week and authorities emphasized there was no known threat to schools.

Over 150 police officers, sheriff’s deputies, and federal agents are on Jakubowski’s trail. Police said he is considered “armed and highly dangerous.” Among the weapons he is accused of stealing were several high caliber handguns and at least two semi-automatic assault rifles. Police also believe he may possess a bulletproof vest and military-style helmet.

A cell phone video was released by the Sheriff’s Office showing the suspect allegedly showing off the manifesto before placing it in the mail. In the video he says “There it is you see it’s getting shipped. Revolution! It’s time for change.”

As investigators continue to follow leads, the FBI has offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to his arrest.