Busy Night for Rockford Police with Bomb Threat, Armed Arrest at Local Bar
Rockford Police were busy with two separate incidents at local entertainment establishments that included a bomb threat on Tuesday (2/10).
Bomb Threat Disrupts Afternoon at Casino
A busy afternoon at one of Rockford's top entertainment destinations quickly shifted to tension on Tuesday after a bomb threat was called into the Hard Rock Casino on East State Street.
According to a Rockford Police press release, officers responded around 3:40 pm on Tuesday to reports that a man had phoned in a threat targeting the popular gaming and concert venue.
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Officers identified the suspect as 32-year-old Joshua Ellsworth of Rockford. According to investigators, Ellsworth was taken into custody at his residence without incident.
The Winnebago County State's Attorney's Office approved charges of Disorderly Conduct for a False Bomb Threat and Terrorism. Ellsworth was lodged in the Winnebago County Jail. No injuries or evacuations were tied to this incident, according to the press release.
Arrest at Local Bar Leads to Weapons and Drug Charges
Later on Tuesday night, Rockford's SCOPE (Specialized Community Oriented Police Enforcement) unit responded to BJ's Place on 11th Street after receiving information that a wanted man was inside.
RPD officers say that 29-year-old Jacob Bennett ran from police and threw a handgun while attempting to flee the scene. He was captured nearby, and officers were able to recover a loaded firearm, a switchblade knife, a Suboxone pill, and more than 13 grams of cocaine.
Bennett now faces multiple felony charges, including Armed Violence, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon by a Felon, possession of a firearm with no serial number, no valid FOID, drug possession, resisting arrest, and an outstanding warrant.
Police Emphasize Public Safety
While both cases unfolded at or near places known for nightlife and entertainment, police stress that these incidents were isolated and investigations remain ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Rockford Police at 815-966-2900, or text RPDTIP to 847411. Remain anonymous by calling Rockford Area Crime Stoppers at 815-963-7867.
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