Springfield Man Arrested in Multi-State Vehicle Theft Ring

Richard Wilson, 47, of Springfield, Illinois, was arrested for his role as a key figure in a multi-state organized theft ring responsible for stealing off-road vehicles, trailers, and lawn equipment across Illinois and Missouri. The Pike County Sheriff's Department received numerous reports of stolen items including side-by-side utility vehicles, dirt bikes, zero-turn mowers, and utility trailers from multiple communities between April and July 2025. Investigations linked thefts in Pike County to other incidents in Piatt, Fayette, Franklin, Tazewell counties in Illinois, and several Missouri jurisdictions, leading to Wilson's arrest on multiple warrants including theft over $10,000 and possession of a stolen motor vehicle. Law enforcement agencies executed search warrants at Wilson's residence, recovering electronic devices and other evidence believed to be used in the thefts. Chief Deputy Zack Orr highlighted the arrest as a significant turning point in the complex, multi-jurisdictional investigation and noted ongoing efforts to recover stolen property and pursue additional arrests. Authorities continue to analyze electronic data and coordinate with multiple agencies to further the investigation.