Two men from Benton Harbor, Michigan, have been charged with multiple crimes related to the theft of firearms from Dunham’s Sports in Benton Harbor. The U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan, Mark Totten, made the announcement, emphasizing the importance of combating the epidemic of gun violence that has gripped the nation.
The charged individuals, Darnell Bishop and Dontrell Nance, allegedly approached the store manager of Dunham’s Sports outside his home on the evening of November 16, 2023, holding him at gunpoint. They then proceeded to handcuff and blindfold the manager and transport him to another location, where they coerced him into providing security access information for the Dunham’s store. Following this, Bishop entered the store with the manager’s keys and made off with over 120 handguns packed into two large coolers, leaving with all but one gun. If convicted, both men face the possibility of life in prison.
Subsequent investigations led to the discovery of firearms stolen from Dunham’s, as well as an additional pistol, in residences and vehicles associated with Bishop and Nance. Both individuals were taken into custody on the same day, November 17, 2023.
Commenting on the case, ATF Detroit Field Division Special Agent in Charge, James Deir, stated, “Dontrelle Nance and Darnell Bishop are getting coal in their stockings this year rather than the 120 plus firearms they tried to steal during an armed robbery attempt of the Dunham’s Sporting Goods store in Benton Harbor.” Deir emphasized the significance of addressing the threats posed by robberies and burglaries of gun dealers to community safety and commended ATF’s partnership with state and local law enforcement agencies in the swift investigation that prevented the stolen firearms from reaching the hands of violent criminals.
Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson of the FBI in Michigan also highlighted the harm caused by the use of stolen guns in violent crimes. Emphasizing the potential for arresting and charging individuals involved in such crimes to protect the community, Gibson thanked the FBI’s Benton Harbor Safe Streets Task Force for quickly resolving the case.
MSP Inspector Ryan Schoonveld expressed the Michigan State Police’s pride in collaborating with other law enforcement agencies to bring the dangerous situation to a safe and successful conclusion, acknowledging the efforts put forth by officers from local, state, and federal agencies in resolving the case.
The comprehensive investigation of the case was undertaken by the Benton Charter Township Police Department, Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety, Berrien County Sheriff’s Department, Michigan State Police, ATF, and FBI.
The U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan, Mark Totten, stressed the urgency of addressing the rampant gun violence that has plagued various communities, including Benton Harbor. He expressed the commitment and determination to prove the case and combat the crisis driven by the illegal influx of guns into communities. Totten’s remarks highlighted the severity of the situation and the significance of ensuring that justice is served.
In conclusion, the charges brought against Darnell Bishop and Dontrell Nance shed light on the serious consequences of gun-related crimes and the importance of proactive law enforcement efforts to prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands. The collaborative efforts of various law enforcement agencies, as exemplified by the successful investigation and resolution of this case, play a critical role in safeguarding communities and promoting public safety.
