Arrests Made in Connection to Des Moines Metro Gun Store Burglaries

DES MOINES, Iowa - Dcember 19, 2017, David Marken Aikoriegie and Myles Jordan Maricle Pena, both of Des Moines, Iowa, appeared in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Celeste F. Bremer on charges related to a series of gun store burglaries in the Des Moines area, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum.

David Marken Aikoriegie is charged with three counts of theft of firearms from a federal firearm licensee and one count of unlawful possession, receipt, and sale of a stolen firearm. The Complaint alleges between the dates of November 16, 2017, and December 14, 2017, Aikoriegie burglarized and stole firearms from JLM Gun Shoppe in Urbandale and Rangemasters in Clive. It is also alleged Aikoriegie sold some of the stolen firearms.

Myles Jordan Maricle Pena appeared on the charge of unlawful drug user in possession of a firearm. The Complaint Affidavit alleges on or about December 14, 2017, Pena sold a stolen firearm to another individual. The firearm was stolen from one of the burglaries alleged to have been committed by Aikoriegie. The complaint further alleges, during the execution of a search warrant at his home, Pena was found in possession of a firearm and marijuana.

The public is reminded the charges are an accusation, and individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. 

This investigation is being conducted by the Clive Police Department; United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Des Moines Police Department; and Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. The case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

Law enforcement request the public’s assistance in supplying any information as to the location of firearms stolen from JLM Gun Shoppe and Rangemasters. You can contact the Clive Police or the ATF.

Clive Police, during business hours    515-278-1312

Clive Police, 24/7 through Westcom  515-222-3312

ATF Tip Line 24/7      1-800-ATF-GUNS (1-800-283-4867)

ATF Online 24/7         https://www.atf.gov/contact/atf-tips

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov (link sends the e-mail).