Rexburg LDS Churches increase security amid reports of men trespassing for sexual acts

REXBURG, Idaho — Rexburg police have stepped up patrols around Latter-day Saint church buildings following reports that unidentified men have been entering properties and engaging in sexual acts.

Rexburg Assistant Police Chief Gary Hagen told EastIdahoNews.com that while there is no active investigation, officers are increasing nighttime patrols at local meetinghouses.

The heightened security comes after regional church leaders sent letters to congregations in Rexburg and Idaho Falls warning of an “ongoing issue” with individuals entering church buildings and engaging in lewd behavior. According to the letters, some incidents have been recorded, and the activity has occurred during weeknight youth programs, raising concerns for the safety of minors.

“In some cases, individuals have recorded themselves committing these acts, sometimes involving more than one person, and sometimes acting alone,” the Church says in an email.“We believe these unidentified individuals are entering meetinghouses on weeknights while youth activities are taking place and are engaging in lewd acts inside classrooms. This significantly increases the risk of youth or others being exposed to these situations.” EastIdahoNews.com confirmed the authenticity of the emails with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

A person was arrested in 2025 for similar allegations, though church officials say that individual is not believed to be involved in current incidents. As a precaution, temporary cameras have been installed at a Rexburg meetinghouse, and police have requested special access to some properties if there is reasonable suspicion of entry. Church activities have not been canceled.

Church spokesman Brett Crandall did not respond to requests for comment. Police in Idaho Falls, as well as the Bonneville and Madison County Sheriff’s Offices, report no ongoing investigations related to these incidents.