Erik Hans Heaney, 34, of Merrimack, was arrested on Aug. 10 for allegedly stealing from a church in Nashua. Courtesy photo/Nashua Police Department

NASHUA – Erik Hans Heaney, 34, of Merrimack, was taken into custody on Aug. 10 for allegedly stealing from a church.

According to the Nashua Police Department, officers responded to the Church of the Good Shepherd at 214 Main St. and were told that Heaney came into the church smoking a cigarette and took the Chalice from the altar.

A church volunteer attempted to stop Heaney; however, he refused and left the church.

The Chalice was later recovered by police and Heaney has been charged with robbery.

He was held without bail and was scheduled to be arraigned in Nashua District Court on Aug. 11.

Under state law, if convicted, he could face up to seven years in prison, up to five years of probation and a fine of up to $4,000.