STATESVILLE, N.C. (Iredell County Sheriff’s Office) – A 58-year-old man from Statesville, Anthony Leroy Wellman, was arrested on March 17 by Iredell County Sheriff’s Officers. He faces felony charges of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and felony possession of a weapon of mass destruction.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Wellman initially reported a breaking and entering at his residence, claiming that the suspect had forcibly entered his safe and stolen a substantial amount of cash. The investigation into the theft remains ongoing.
During the course of the investigation, deputies observed multiple firearms inside Wellman’s residence. Upon further inquiry, they determined that Wellman, as a convicted felon, was legally prohibited from possessing firearms.
Investigators revealed that Wellman knowingly possessed the firearms, fully aware that it was unlawful for him to do so. When deputies attempted to confiscate the firearms, Wellman reportedly became uncooperative and was subsequently detained.
Detectives were called to assist, and a search warrant was obtained for Wellman’s residence. Upon executing the search, investigators seized multiple firearms, ammunition, firearm accessories, and a weapon of mass destruction.
Wellman was given a secured bond of $50,000, and his next appearance in District Court is scheduled for April 2. Authorities are continuing to investigate the stolen cash.
