Reward Offered for Information on Retail Gun Theft

May 7, 2010 - ATLANTA — The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Atlanta Field Division today announced a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of those responsible for a recent firearms theft at Pannell’s Firearms, located at 10102 Main Street in Woodstock, Ga. The case is being jointly investigated by ATF special agents and Cherokee Sheriff’s Office (CSO) investigators.

The early morning burglary occurred at Pannell’s Firearms and Range, a federal firearms licensee (FFL), on Tuesday, April 27. Store security video shows two subjects approaching the business at 3:15 a.m. Once inside, they are seen smashing glass countertops and placing firearms into bags before fleeing the area. In approximately one minute, the suspects were able to steal a total of 24 firearms.

“Investigating firearms thefts from federally licensed gun dealers is a top priority for ATF,” said Special Agent in Charge Gregory Gant. “We all have a vested interest in arresting those responsible and recovering these stolen guns. Solving this crime will be a team effort among ATF, the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office and concerned members of the public.”

Sheriff Roger Garrison said, “We are pleased that ATF has offered a reward to assist in this investigation. I strongly encourage anyone with any information related to this incident or the suspects involved to come forward.”

Investigators are seeking the public’s help with identifying the suspects and providing information on the location of any of the stolen firearms. Anyone with information is encouraged to call ATF’s toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477) or the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division at 770-928-0239. Callers can remain anonymous.