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May 09, 2008
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Dozens of guns seized in militia raid
The Chicago Sun-Times LAKE FOREST, Ill. — A tip that a Lake Forest investment broker might have ties to a militia group led to a Thursday morning raid on his sprawling home, netting dozens of guns — including three .50-caliber weapons known for their massive firepower, authorities said. Benjamin A. Stevens, 49, of 1991 Telegraph Road, is charged with illegal gun possession. His state firearm owner identification card was revoked after a 2002 domestic battery arrest, officials said. State Police and the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives recovered about 85 rifles and handguns, including a .50-caliber sniper rifle, two .50-caliber guns with tripods, an Uzi, a .30-caliber rifle and about 50,000 rounds of ammunition, authorities said. ATF, which is assisting the State Police, will test the .50-caliber weapons to see if they're fully automatic and if the ammo was armor-piercing — federal violations. Despite the militia tip, investigators have not confirmed Stevens was affiliated with such a group, a law enforcement source said. He was in custody pending a bond hearing and could not be reached for comment. Stevens had been free on bond after being charged in March with domestic battery involving his wife, daughter and son, officials said. Stevens, who lives in a multimillion-dollar home on two wooded acres on the west side of the affluent community, was described by a law enforcement source as being "down on his luck" lately. Business records list him as owner of Benjamin & Jerold Brokerage Inc. in the Loop. The .50-caliber weapons found in his home have prompted political debate for years. Mayor Daley and Gov. Blagojevich have unsuccessfully called for .50-caliber rifles to be outlawed. Copyright 2008 The Chicago Sun-Times
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