EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — Gustavus Adolphus College professor Aaron Lee Banks, 52, was arrested earlier this month for allegedly stealing attachments and ammunition for an AR-15 over several weeks.
Authorities charged Banks with felony theft and possession of theft tools. Court documents state that on March 14, Banks was seen at Scheels in Eden Prairie cutting open a display box containing an AR-15 trigger and pocketing it. He also reportedly stole an AR charging handle and a box of rifle ammunition before leaving the store without paying.
All three items, valued at $544.93, were later recovered in Banks’ possession. Investigators say Banks had allegedly stolen additional items on multiple occasions between February 25 and his arrest, including more ammunition, an AR-15 attachment, and a pair of gloves, totaling an estimated $1,299.84 in stolen goods. Some items have not yet been recovered.
Gustavus Adolphus College confirmed Banks is on leave while the investigation continues and has made arrangements to cover his teaching and advising duties.
“As this is an active legal case, Gustavus will have no further comment at this time,” the college said.
Banks faces ongoing criminal proceedings as authorities continue to investigate the full scope of the alleged thefts.
