PEORIA — Two Peoria men will spend years behind bars after pleading guilty to a robbery that unfolded under the pretense of a gun sale.
Isaiah Holland, 29, and Tyrone Anthony Curtis, 23, were sentenced after admitting to their roles in the crime, which involved stealing thousands of dollars from a buyer in a fraudulent firearm transaction.
Federal prosecutors revealed that Curtis had arranged to sell handguns and two switches. However, during the meeting, Holland pulled a gun on the unsuspecting buyer, stealing $4,100 in cash, along with their wallet and keys.
Authorities later arrested both men, finding them in possession of two firearms. Holland was charged with robbery and using a firearm during a crime of violence, while Curtis, a convicted felon, faced charges of unlawful firearm possession.
Their sentencing took place under the jurisdiction of Judge Johnathan Hawley. Holland received 12 months in prison for the robbery and an additional 84 months for the firearms offense, to be served consecutively—totaling eight years. He will also undergo three years of supervised release. Curtis was sentenced to 33 months in prison, followed by three years of supervision.
Both men have been in U.S. Marshals’ custody since their arrest in January 2024.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of illegal firearm transactions and the severe consequences for those involved in violent crimes.
