Felon Arrested After Deputies Find Stolen Guns, Suspected Drugs

A domestic battery investigation in Sangamon County led to the recovery of 18 firearms, including two stolen weapons and two fully automatic machine guns, along with approximately 900 grams of suspected cannabis.

According to the Sangamon County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to a reported domestic disturbance at a residence in the 7000 block of Lake Services Road at approximately 6:26 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11.

During the investigation, deputies discovered evidence of a physical altercation and received information indicating that firearms and suspected narcotics were being concealed on the property.

Deputies subsequently obtained a search warrant for the residence and a detached garage. During the search, investigators recovered 18 firearms, including two stolen firearms, two fully automatic AK-47-style machine guns, two firearms without serial numbers, commonly referred to as ghost guns, and another firearm with a defaced serial number.

Investigators also recovered approximately 900 grams of suspected cannabis, along with scales and other items consistent with the packaging and distribution of cannabis.

Larry Gillespie, 39, was arrested on a charge of domestic battery and transported to the Sangamon County Jail.

The Sangamon County State's Attorney's Office has since filed an additional charge of felon in possession of a weapon.

According to records from the Sangamon County Circuit Clerk's Office, Gillespie has four previous felony convictions dating back to 2008. Those convictions include offenses involving the possession, manufacture and delivery of controlled substances.

Additional charges were also submitted in connection with the firearms and suspected narcotics recovered during the investigation.

"We will not tolerate individuals who put our residents and families at risk," Sheriff Paula Crouch said. "When our deputies encounter criminal activity, they will take action. We will continue to enforce the law and hold those who threaten the safety of our communities accountable."

The investigation began as a response to a domestic disturbance but resulted in the discovery of multiple firearms and suspected narcotics at the property.