Police Seize Record Number of Illegal Firearms

The Springfield Police Department reported that officers seized a record number of illegal firearms during the month of January 2026, marking the highest total recovered in a single month in the department’s history. According to the department, investigators recovered 57 firearms as a result of targeted enforcement efforts aimed at reducing gun violence and removing dangerous weapons from city streets.

The seizures were carried out by the department’s Criminal Investigations Division, including its Crimes Against Persons and Street Crimes units, through a combination of investigative stops, search warrants, focused efforts to address gang-related activity, and lawful arrests. Police officials stated that many of the firearms recovered during the month were connected to individuals identified as known gang members, underscoring the role of intelligence-driven policing in disrupting illegal activity.

Authorities said the weapons recovered represented a wide range of firearms, including shotguns, assault-style rifles, revolvers, semi-automatic pistols, and fully automatic weapons. While emphasizing that even a single illegal firearm can have serious and lasting consequences for the community, police noted that the January total reflects a sustained commitment to public safety and proactive enforcement.

Police officials described the milestone as a positive step toward making Springfield safer, while stressing that enforcement efforts by the Criminal Investigations Division continue daily. The department also reiterated its appreciation for officers who carry out this work, noting the risks involved in confronting armed and organized criminal activity.

Due to ongoing investigations, no additional details about specific cases or arrests were released. Anyone with information related to gang activity or illegal firearms is encouraged to contact the Springfield Police Department or Sangamon/Menard County Crime Stoppers, according to police officials.