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Federal authorities have arrested the second suspect linked to the March 2026 armed robbery of the Isle of Capri Casino in Boonville, Missouri, marking a major development in the $1.3 million casino heist investigation.
According to authorities, Hollis C. Vanleer Jr., 20, was arrested June 24 in Bloomington, Illinois, after a monthslong search involving federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The FBI had previously offered a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to his arrest.
Details of armed robbery at Isle of Capri Casino
The robbery occurred March 25, 2026, at the Isle of Capri Casino in Boonville, located about 150 miles west of St. Louis. Investigators said two masked men wearing black clothing and sunglasses entered the casino around 2 p.m.
According to court documents, the suspects headed directly to the casino vault area near the rear of the building. One man allegedly carried a handgun while the other was armed with an AR-15-style rifle. Authorities said the pair jumped over the casino cage desk, entered a restricted cash area and stole approximately $1.276 million before fleeing with the money in a black duffel bag.
Investigators said the robbery appeared to be carefully coordinated. Authorities alleged the suspects used explosions outside the casino as a diversion tactic to distract staff and patrons while the theft was underway.
During the escape, a bystander reportedly attempted to stop the suspects near an exit. Court records state one suspect was briefly tackled before the second allegedly assaulted the individual, allowing both men to escape.
The suspects fled in a tan Ford Taurus that was later found abandoned in Howard County, Missouri. Investigators believe the pair switched to a second vehicle after leaving the scene, according to a news report by 25 News Now.
Casino employee charged in connection with heist
Authorities arrested casino employee Benjamin Michael-Dass Charles, 21, the day after the robbery. Investigators said evidence recovered from the abandoned vehicle — including receipts and homemade explosive materials — linked Charles to the crime.
According to court filings, Charles admitted to planning the robbery for nearly a month with an alleged accomplice. He also reportedly told investigators the stolen money had been moved out of Missouri, although authorities have not publicly confirmed whether any of the cash has been recovered.
Charles faces charges including first-degree robbery, armed criminal action and tampering with evidence. His bond was previously set at $1.3 million, according to an ABC 17 News report.
FBI fugitive captured after months on the run
Vanleer was charged April 14 in Cooper County, Missouri, with first-degree robbery, armed criminal action and first-degree assault. He remained at large for several months while the FBI, Missouri State Highway Patrol and Cooper County Sheriff’s Office coordinated search efforts.
Authorities confirmed June 24 that Vanleer had been taken into custody in Bloomington, Illinois. He is currently being held in the McLean County Jail pending additional legal proceedings.
Heist raises questions about casino security risks
The Missouri casino robbery has renewed attention on security vulnerabilities and insider threats within the gaming industry.
Investigators believe the suspects had detailed knowledge of the casino’s internal operations, including vault access procedures and cash-handling routines. Authorities said the alleged involvement of a casino employee underscores broader concerns surrounding insider-assisted thefts in high-cash environments.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control continues assisting in the investigation alongside federal and local law enforcement agencies. Officials have not announced whether additional arrests or charges are expected. The case remains active.
