Federal authorities in the US have stepped up efforts to find a fugitive connected to a notorious Missouri casino heist, offering a cash reward for information leading to his arrest.
FBI Offers $5K Reward in $1.2M Missouri Casino Heist
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has announced a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of Hollis C. Vanleer Jr., who is charged with participating in a large-scale theft at the Isle of Capri Casino in Boonville earlier this year, reported The Marshall Democrat-News. The March 25 incident was a carefully orchestrated plan that raked in more than $1.2 million in cash, authorities say.
According to police, two men dressed in dark clothing and masks entered the casino at some point during the afternoon hours. The duo, armed with guns, quickly made their way to a restricted cash handling area in the rear of the building. They then jumped over a secured counter and entered a cash drawer, putting money into a duffel bag before fleeing the scene.
Court papers suggest diversionary tactics may have helped the robbery, including explosives set off outside the casino to distract attention from the heist. A bystander attempted to intercede during the escape, and there was a brief physical altercation before the suspects got away.
Casino Staffer Linked to Plot, Second Suspect Still on the Run
One of the alleged participants was later identified as casino employee Benjamin Michael-Dass Charles, who was arrested shortly after the incident. Police believe he was heavily involved in planning the operation, which was reportedly being prepared for several weeks. Receipts and homemade explosive devices were found by law enforcement in a vehicle linked to the suspects, which helped them connect Charles to the crime.
Vanleer Jr. remains at large. He was formally charged with multiple counts, including first-degree robbery, armed criminal action, and assault, in mid-April. An active arrest warrant has been issued, but he has so far evaded capture.
Law enforcement officials say the suspect should be considered dangerous and urge the public not to approach him under any circumstances. He is described as being about 6 feet 1 inch tall with black hair, brown eyes, and a tattoo on his left hand. Authorities also think he could have connections to parts of Illinois, including the Chicago area and Normal.
The FBI continues to actively pursue leads in this case in coordination with state and local authorities. Authorities are appealing for information from anyone who might have it, saying that any piece of information, no matter how small, could be key to tracking down the suspect and closing the books on the investigation.