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Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

Reward Notice

For Immediate Release

Thursday, July 5, 2018
Contact: Suzanne Dabkowski

ATF, Firearms Industry Offer Reward in Columbus, Ind. Gun-Store Burglary

INDIANAPOLIS — The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) – the trade association for the firearms industry – are announcing a reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the burglary of Watson Chambers Defense Institute, located at 1710 17th Street, Columbus, Ind.  ATF and NSSF have partnered to offer a reward of up to $5,000.

At approximately 4:30 a.m. on July 5, 2018, at least two unknown individuals forcibly gained entry into the building, taking 10 firearms. ATF is working with the Columbus Police Department to investigate the incident.

Anyone with information about this crime should contact ATF at 1-800-ATF-GUNS (800-283-4867).  Information can also be sent to ATFTips@atf.gov, through ATF’s website at www.atf.gov/contact/atftips. Tips can be submitted anonymously using the Reportit® app or by visiting www.reportit.com.

This reward is part of a larger national cooperative initiative between the NSSF and ATF in which NSSF matches ATF rewards in cases involving the theft of firearms from federally licensed retailers.  ATF works closely with the members of the firearms industry to curb the criminal acquisition and misuse of firearms.

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Columbus Field Division