Authorities have arrested two Arizona men accused of trafficking 14 stolen firearms taken from a gun show at the Phoenix Convention Center.
How It Happened
On Jan. 15, Xander Jackson, 25, allegedly stole 14 handguns from a display case in the lower-level convention hall during the early-morning hours. Jackson, who was working as a temporary employee at the event, was reportedly caught on security footage leaving with a black bag, which he hid in nearby bushes before retrieving it later.
Cell phone records confirmed Jackson was at the scene, and he was arrested on Jan. 27. During questioning, Jackson admitted to stealing the guns, initially claiming he kept three and buried the rest. He later changed his story, stating he gave them to others to sell.
A search warrant at Jackson’s apartment led to the recovery of two more stolen firearms, bringing the total recovered to three out of 14.
Second Suspect Identified
Police linked Arvon Reynolds, 19, to the crime after discovering text messages from Jackson implicating him as the getaway driver.
Reynolds was arrested on Feb. 5, and a search of his apartment uncovered stolen firearms, including one found in a baby’s playpen in his bedroom.
Charges and Bond
- Xander Jackson: Held on $75,000 bond, charged with burglary, trafficking stolen property, and theft.
- Arvon Reynolds: Held on $50,000 bond, charged with trafficking stolen property and possession of weapons by a prohibited person.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the whereabouts of the remaining stolen firearms following the gun show.
