Posted on: March 31, 2026, 07:20h.
Last updated on: March 31, 2026, 07:20h.
- Masked Assailants Execute $1.3 Million Heist at Isle of Capri Boonville
- Casino Employee Allegedly Orchestrated Robbery Using Explosives as a Distraction
- Investigation Ongoing as Second Suspect Remains At Large in Missouri
Law enforcement officials in Missouri are actively pursuing a male suspect linked to a bold midday heist that took place last Wednesday at the Isle of Capri Casino in Boonville, where two masked individuals made off with an estimated $1.3 million in cash.
The identified suspect is Hollis C. Vanleer Jr., a 20-year-old from Normal, Illinois, who is believed to be armed and dangerous. His alleged partner in crime, Benjamin Michael-Dass Charles, 21, from Columbia, Missouri, and a casino employee, was arrested the following Friday.
As per a probable cause statement from the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP), the robbery occurred around 2:13 p.m. when two individuals clad in black attire with face masks, hats, and sunglasses entered the casino wielding an AR-15-style rifle and a semi-automatic pistol.
The Heist
The perpetrators swiftly traversed the casino floor, vaulted over the cashier area, and gained entry to the main vault. Once inside, they reportedly opened a drawer, seizing approximately $1,276,000 in cash and stuffing it into a dark duffel bag.
While fleeing, a vigilant casino patron tackled one of the assailants near the exit. Reports indicate a struggle ensued, during which the suspect’s disguise was partially dislodged. The second suspect intervened, allegedly hitting the patron multiple times.
The suspects made their getaway in a gold 1998 Ford Taurus, later discovered abandoned in adjacent Howard County. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a receipt for a transaction made using a card registered to Charles, along with seven homemade explosive devices, according to investigators.
Additionally, authorities connected Charles to a firearm found at the heist location. Evidence linked to the weapon, including a phone number used for its purchase, further implicated Charles.
Inside Information
On March 26, officers from the Missouri Gaming Commission identified Charles as an employee working on-site during the incident, leading to his detention.
Upon interrogation, Charles allegedly confessed to planning the robbery for about a month. He disclosed to officials that explosive devices were utilized as distractions before the heist, and that he subsequently transported the stolen money and rifle out of state to eliminate potential evidence.
Charles is now facing a range of serious felony charges, including first-degree robbery, first-degree assault, armed criminal action, possession of explosive devices, and tampering with physical evidence.
The investigation is ongoing.