KNOX COUNTY, Ill. — Four men have been arrested in connection with a firearm theft investigation in Knox County.
Maurice R. Gryp, 47, Dallas L. Charles, 51, and Rodney D. Smith, 63, all from Galesburg, face charges including aggravated possession of a stolen firearm, unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon, burglary, and theft. Cory B. Tucker, 42, of Williamsfield, was arrested for conspiracy to commit burglary, possession of methamphetamine, and theft in a related incident.
The investigation began after a report of a gun theft at a Victoria home on Sept. 29, where family members discovered a broken gun safe and missing firearms. Deputies executed a search warrant in East Galesburg on Nov. 3, recovering 17 stolen guns hidden in attic insulation, along with ammunition and other stolen items.
“Recovering seventeen stolen firearms from circulation is a major success for public safety,” said Knox County Sheriff Jack Harlan Jr. “This case demonstrates the importance of strong partnerships between deputies, detectives, and the State’s Attorney’s Office.”
The Knox County Sheriff’s Office credited the Knox County State’s Attorney’s Office, Galesburg Police Department, Peoria County Bomb Squad, and the Quad City FBI TOC West Task Force for their assistance. Investigators noted that additional charges may follow as the investigation continues.