ATF, Firearms Industry Offer Reward in Firearms Theft

Seeking Public's Help in the Burglary of Firearms Business

CHICAGO – The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the trade association for the firearms industry, have announced a reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the burglary of Sand Burr Gun Shop, a federal firearm licensee (FFL), in Rochester, Ind. ATF is offering a reward of up to $5,000, which will be matched by the NSSF for a total reward of up to $10,000.

On Nov. 20, 2016, between the hours of 12:30 a.m. and 3:30 a.m., an unidentified suspect(s) entered Sand Burr Gun Shop, located at 2111 E. 350 North, Rochester and removed in excess of 50 firearms from the premises. This crime is being investigated by ATF and the Fulton County Sheriff’s Department (FCSD).

“Through experience, we know that stolen firearms are utilized by violent criminals to perpetrate additional crimes. Law enforcement is seeking assistance from the public in locating these weapons and identifying those responsible,” said George H. Lauder, Acting Special Agent in Charge, ATF Chicago Field Division.

The reward is part of a larger national cooperative initiative between the NSSF and ATF in which NSSF matches ATF rewards in cases involving the theft of firearms from federally licensed firearms retailers. ATF works closely with members of the firearms industry to curb the criminal acquisition and misuse of firearms

ATF along with our law enforcement partners are committed to ensuring that our communities are safe, and that those who commit violent crimes such as this are held accountable. Anyone with information about this crime should contact ATF at 1-800-ATF-GUNS (800-283-4867). All calls will be kept confidential.