The FBI is offering up to $5,000 for information leading to the capture of Hollis Vanleer Jr., a 20-year-old fugitive wanted in connection with the $1.3 million robbery of the Isle of Capri Casino in Boonville, Missouri. Vanleer has been on the run since March 25, when he and an alleged accomplice, Benjamin Charles, orchestrated a dramatic heist involving explosive tactics.
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Inside Job with Explosive Diversion
Court documents reveal a brazen scheme that unfolded around 2:13 p.m. when two masked men, dressed in black and wielding firearms, entered the casino amidst diversionary explosions outside. The suspects bypassed security, made a beeline for the cashier cage, and grabbed approximately $1.276 million from the main bank area—fitting it all into a black duffel bag. A curious twist came when a casino patron attempted to stop them, tackling one of the assailants near an exit. But the second suspect intervened, allegedly assaulting the patron until both could flee. The duo escaped in a gold 1998 Ford Taurus, later discovered abandoned in a nearby county.
Accomplice Ties, Arrest, and Charges
The investigation quickly linked Benjamin Charles to the crime. A casino employee, Charles was apprehended on March 26 after authorities found purchase receipts and explosive devices in the abandoned getaway vehicle. But under questioning, Charles reportedly confessed to planning the robbery for a month with Vanleer and said they’d transported the loot out of state. Charles faces charges of first-degree robbery, armed criminal action, and tampering with evidence, while Vanleer is charged with similar crimes plus first-degree assault. Both carry hefty $1.3 million bonds.
Fugitive’s Background and Current Status
Authorities have declared Vanleer armed and dangerous, cautioning the public not to approach him. He’s believed to have ties in Chicago and Normal, Illinois. An FBI wanted poster describes Vanleer as standing 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighing between 180 and 230 pounds, with a distinctive hand tattoo. As of now, the whereabouts of the stolen money remain unknown, and efforts continue to recover it. The FBI’s reward offer underscores the urgency of locating Vanleer, whose arrest could bring clarity to this high-stakes case. The case remains open, with authorities actively pursuing leads. Missouri Gaming Commission and local law enforcement are collaborating with federal agents to find Vanleer as the investigation progresses.
Eri Gaitu leads the news desk at Best in Slot, tracking breaking developments across the gambling world in real time. From exclusive bonus offers and casino launches to licensing updates and regulatory shifts, Eri ensures readers are always first to know about the changes that matter to their gaming experience.
