ATF Offers $5K Reward for Information on Gun Store Robbery

Three Masked Gunmen Assault Gun Clerk and Steal 27 Firearms

ATLANTA — A reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and convictions of those responsible for a recent firearms armed robbery at Direct Gold Outlet, a federally licensed gun dealer in Covington, Georgia, was announced today by Gregory K. Gant, Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The owners of Direct Gold Outlet are pleading with the public to come forward with any information that would help recover the stolen firearms. This crime has triggered a joint investigation between ATF and the Newton County Sheriff’s Department.

“We all have a vested interest in arresting those responsible for this crime,” said Gant. “We know that in many instances, stolen firearms end up in the hands of violent criminals, who use them to commit additional crimes. Gun thieves play a critical and deadly role in the chain of violence.”

The armed robbery occurred around 12:30 p.m., Thursday, at the business located at 11230 Highway 36, Covington, Georgia. The suspects entered the business at gunpoint and assaulted a female clerk. The robbers then smashed glass display cases and removed over 25 firearms. The assailants could only be identified as three males, wearing masks and gloves.

Investigators are seeking the public’s help with identifying the subjects involved and providing information on the location of any or all 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)

More information about ATF and its programs is available at www.atf.gov.