A man possessing weapons of mass destruction, including flamethrowers, crossbows, a pepper ball launcher and over 500 rounds of ammunition, was
Man Carrying Flamethrowers and Crossbows Arrested at Church
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During Sunday's service at Wesley Memorial Church in High Point, a church member saw a man draped in camouflage clothing sitting in the parking lot and called 911.
When the High Point Police Department arrested the man less than an hour later, they discovered a full arsenal in the man's truck.
"Thanks to the quick action of our officers, a man armed with weapons was taken into custody before anyone was hurt," Police Chief Curtis Cheeks III said in a June 29 news release.
"The officers prevented a potentially dangerous situation from escalating. And helped ensure everyone attending church services could return home safely. We also want to thank the community members who recognized a potential danger. And had the courage to speak up."
The weapons-wielding man was identified as William S. Milliken III. According to arrest warrants, the 44-year-old presented himself as a law enforcement officer, approached a man and informed him he was there to enforce a smoking violation at the church.
Police found four pills of oxycodone in Milliken III's truck.
Man Arrested After Impersonating Law Enforcement
Despite the man possessing enough firepower to take down a village, he was arrested without a struggle.
"Additional officers arrived within a few minutes. The officers disarmed the man and took him into custody without incident," police said.
Details of a motive have not been released. Detectives have not said if the suspect has ties to the congregation.
High Point Mayor Cyril Jefferson said that the suspect may have mental health issues.
The mayor also gave a full rundown of Milliken's extensive arsenal.
"After searching the vehicle, officers recovered a CO?-powered launcher designed to resemble a handgun, two flamethrowers, two crossbows, more than 500 rounds of ammunition, multiple knives, black duct tape, and oxycodone pills," Jefferson said. "The suspect now faces multiple criminal charges. Including possession of a weapon of mass destruction.
"Court documents also show he had a notebook with addresses of churches and schools, police scanners, body armor, and more in his truck. The docs also state he's believed to have mental health issues."
Milliken III is being held at the Guilford County Courthouse. He was denied bond due to his "love for guns," according to court documents. He is scheduled to appear in court on July 24.
