Bold Kidnapping Leads to Handgun Theft Scheme in Benton Harbor: Darnell Bishop and Accomplice Faces Life Imprisonment

Darnell Bishop pleaded guilty in a criminal scheme to steal 123 handguns by kidnapping the manager of a Michigan sporting goods store. This act was described as being bold and if successful, would have led to the illegal distribution of firearms on the streets of Benton Harbor and beyond.

Bishop acknowledged that he and his brother handcuffed and blindfolded the store manager at their home, and then went on to commit the crime. Evidence of the theft included video footage from the store, which showed Bishop stealing items while his accomplice stayed with the manager.

The U.S. Attorney Mark Totten made this statement about Darnell Bishop’s actions: “This criminal activity was not only dangerous but also had the potential to cause harm to our community.”

Darnell Bishop will face life imprisonment for his actions, as will his accomplice Nance who has also pleaded guilty to the charges brought against them. The stolen handguns were worth over $100,000 according to the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, but thankfully all of them have been recovered.