Wheeling men arrested, found with gun stolen 50 years ago

A computer check of the gun revealed it was stolen out of Detroit, Michigan in 1969.

Two Wheeling men were arrested last week after a traffic stop in Buffalo Grove uncovered a gun that was stolen 50 years ago.

Rafael Rodriguez, 20, and Eduardo Leon, 18, were driving on Buffalo Grove Road June 1 when officers stopped them for speeding near Bernard Drive, Buffalo Grove police said. Rodriguez, the driver, showed signs of impairment and was taken into custody.

A subsequent search of the vehicle recovered a .22 caliber revolver, which a computer check revealed had been stolen out of Detroit, Michigan in 1969, police said. Leon, who did not possess a valid firearm owner’s identification card or concealed carry license, said the gun was his.

Eduardo Leon

Leon was charged with one felony count of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon without a FOID or CCL, police said. Rodriguez was charged with a traffic violation and two misdemeanor counts of DUI.

Rafael Rodriguez

Leon’s next court date is June 28, police said. Rodriguez was released on bond and is due back in court July 9.

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