The Washington County Prosecutor’s Office announces Saturday afternoon that all three suspects in an illegal firearm purchase and intimidation case have been arrested.
Charles Denton, 66, Pekin, was arrested by the Washington County Sheriff’s Department and faces formal charges of intimidation against public officials (Level 5 Felony) and two counts of conspiracy to use false information to purchase a firearm (Level 5 Felony).
Conspiracy to commit use of false information to obtain a firearm
Conspiracy to commit use of false information to obtain a firearm
Nathan Mahuron, 51, Campbellsbug
False information to purchase firearm (ARREST WARRANT)
According to the Probable Cause Affidavit, on January 26 at the Salem Walmart, alert employees identified suspicious firearm transactions.
The investigation determined that Denton was denied a firearm purchase due to an alleged threat and false statements on federal forms.
Evidence suggests that Mahuron and Cooper then unlawfully purchased firearms on his behalf by providing false information, violating both state and federal laws.
Denton is also accused of making threatening statements regarding a local government meeting, with witnesses reporting remarks that suggested potential violence, including references to “fumigating” the meeting and “standing with arms” against local rulings.
The investigation, led by Officer Michael Thacker of the Salem Police Department, uncovered additional evidence through video surveillance and witness testimonies, linking the suspects to the illegal firearm transfers and threats.
“Threats against public officials and illegal firearm transactions are serious offenses that will not be tolerated in our community,” said Washington County Prosecutor Tara Coats Hunt.
It is not known at this time which public officials have been threatened or if this was in relation to recent public outcry against a proposed zoning ordinance and upcoming meeting of the Washington County Plan Commission.
“Citizens have the absolute right to express concerns about government policies, but resorting to threats or violence is unacceptable and endangers public safety,” said Hunt.
There was no mention in this press release about what threats were made, who they were made against and what the nature of the threats were.
WSLM is seeking additional information.
The Washington County Prosecutor’s Office extends its gratitude to the Salem Police Department, Washington County Sheriff’s Department, and Walmart employees for their vigilance and cooperation in this case.
The charges contained in the indictments are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
