Williamson Co. deputies: Gun recovered from wanted felon tied to cases in multiple major cities

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Ill. (KFVS) - A handgun recovered from a wanted felon is tied to cases in multiple major cities, according to the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies say an analysis of the gun by the Illinois State Police Crime Lab showed it’s connected to criminal cases pending with the following law enforcement agencies: two cases with the Chicago Police Department, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the Kansas City Police Department.

They said the gun was originally reported stolen to the University of Louisville Police Department.

“It’s amazing technology they’re able to figure this out, but this is not unusual when you’re dealing with stolen firearms and when felons are in possession of those,” said Williamson County Sheriff Jeff Diederich.

He said that they are unsure if Brandon Tennyson fired the weapon or was in possession of it.

“We would have no way of knowing that at this point, but what we do know is the firearm itself, that handgun, is connected to those cases,” he added.

Diedrich said this serves as a reminder for those buying weapons, to do so from a trusted source.

“You need to know that you’re not buying it in a place where it might be stolen,” he explained. “So reputable gun stores and shops and from individuals that you’re familiar with. Taking the proper steps to take care of that paperwork appropriately goes a long way.”

According to the sheriff’s office, the gun was recovered from Brandon Tennyson, of Marion, during a warrant arrest on January 5.

Deputies were serving multiple warrants for Tennyson at his home on South Van Buren Street.

They say when he answered the door, Tennyson was standing in the doorway while concealing his right hand behind it. When the officer told him he was under arrest, they say he tried to retreat into the home.

When Tennyson was pulled from the doorway, they say a handgun fell from his right hand.

Tennyson is a convicted felon, and the handgun was taken into evidence.

He was charged on multiple arrest warrants and additionally charged with the unlawful possession of a weapon by a felony and resisting obstructing a peace office.

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