Crime and Sentencing
A man who kidnapped the manager of a Michigan sporting goods store and held him at gunpoint while an accomplice stole 123 handguns has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison. The sentencing took place on Monday, with Dontrell Nance, 25, receiving consecutive sentences for kidnapping and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred last November when the manager of Dunham’s Sports was ambushed outside his home. Nance handcuffed and blindfolded the manager, forcing him to reveal how to disarm the store’s alarm system. The store, located near Benton Harbor, is about 100 miles east of Chicago.
Court Proceedings and Plea
Nance pleaded guilty to the charges in April. During the sentencing, Nicole Grant, Nance’s mother, told U.S. District Judge Paul Maloney about her son’s turbulent childhood and significant challenges, including mental health problems.
Accomplice and Theft Details
Another individual, Darnell Bishop, has also pleaded guilty in the case and is awaiting sentencing. Authorities stated that while Nance held the manager in the car, Bishop entered the store and stole the guns, transporting them out in coolers. The stolen handguns, valued at more than $100,000, were eventually recovered. Federal agents believe the guns were intended for illegal street sales.
Recovery of Stolen Goods
The stolen firearms were recovered by federal agents, preventing them from being sold on the street. This recovery underscores the severity of the crime and the potential danger posed by the stolen weapons.