Dontrell Nance, Handgun Theft, Michigan 2024

GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — Dontrell Nance, 25, has been convicted of kidnapping and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, in connection with the theft of 123 handguns from a Dunham’s Sports store in Benton Harbor, Michigan.

Nance, who was charged along with his codefendant, Darnell Bishop, admitted to kidnapping the Dunham’s manager at gunpoint, forcing him to provide the keys and alarm code for the store, and then stealing the handguns.

According to the investigation, Nance and Bishop used the stolen handguns to flood the community with illegal firearms, causing trauma and terrorizing innocent people.

“Illegal firearms flood our communities and are responsible for so much trauma and so many tears,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “Without the quick and careful work of law enforcement, these guns would have done more of the same. No level of violence is acceptable, and we will remain laser focused on the few who drive violence in their communities.”

Nance faces a maximum possible penalty of life in prison for his role in the handgun theft. The investigation was a collaborative effort between the Benton Charter Township Police Department, Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety, Berrien County Sheriff’s Department, Michigan State Police, ATF, and FBI.

“This investigation represents the worst of the worst type of scenario for our industry partners and their innocent employees,” said Detroit Field Division Special Agent in Charge James Deir. “Everybody needs to be able to go to work and feel safe. Armed robberies of federal firearms licensees are one of ATF’s top priorities.”

Nance’s codefendant, Darnell Bishop, has pleaded not guilty to kidnapping, interference with commerce by robbery, brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and theft of firearms from a federal firearms licensee. The charges against him are merely accusations, and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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