Gauntt allegedly tried to take two handguns out of the building by hiding them inside of a hallowed-out AcuSport catalog, police said. The weapons are valued at an estimated $1,000.
He was caught by security at the metal detector leaving the building, according to police. Security then called Bellefontaine Police.
“It appears to be a case of attempted financial gain. At some point I think he was hopeful to get rid of them through other channels, but at this point it is a little too early to say for sure that was going to happen,” Bellefontaine Police Chief Brandon Standley said.
He explained the higher charge is because the government wants to protect where firearms are going.
“If an employee is brave enough to steal two guns from the place that has the guns, the facility that ships them out around the globe, then it is a serious offense,” he said.
AcuSport declined to answer questions, but Vice President of Operations Mary Grim released a statement.
“AcuSport takes the safety and security of its operations very seriously and is committed to safeguarding its employees and products. All breaches of security at our facilities will be referred to the appropriate authorities for full investigation and prosecution,” Grim said.
Officers booked Gauntt into the Logan County Jail last week. Jail staff said Gauntt posted bail on Tuesday.
He will most likely go in front of a grand jury later this week.
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