Erik Stephen Deaner, Theft of Firearms, Montana 2024

Billings Man Admits Stealing Firearms

A Billings man is facing serious consequences after stealing firearms from a local business using a construction excavator to break in.

Erik Stephen Deaner, 46, pleaded guilty to theft from a federal firearm licensee in a Billings courtroom yesterday.

According to court documents, Deaner used a construction excavator to tear down a section of wall and door at Castle Arms, a federal firearms licensee in Yellowstone County, on October 21. He then stole five pistols and one antique rifle from the business.

Deaner admitted to using the excavator to break into the business and to stealing the firearms. He also admitted to knowing he was prohibited from possessing firearms but stated he liked firearms.

All of the stolen firearms were recovered from Deaner's garage during an investigation.

Deaner faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. A sentencing date is pending before U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters.

The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. initiative to reduce violent crime. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state, and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses, and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.

The investigation was led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from local law enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas K. Godfrey is prosecuting the case.

Defendant Information:

Defendant: Erik Stephen Deaner

Age: 46

Criminal Charge: Theft from a federal firearm licensee

Affected City and State: Billings, Montana

Crime Date: October 21

Sentence: Maximum of 10 years in prison, $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release

Pending Sentencing Date: Before U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mt/pr/billings-man-admits-stealing-firearms-business-after-using-construction-excavator-break