Rockford Police Seize Loaded Handgun, Arrest 2 in Weapons Investigation

Rockford Police have arrested two men during a search on the city's southeast side that was tied to an ongoing Illinois weapons investigation.

Search Warrant Leads to Gun Recovery

According to a Rockford PD press release, detectives executed a targeted search warrant on Friday morning (1/30) in the 1200 block of Widergren Drive, uncovering a loaded handgun during an ongoing weapons investigation in northern Illinois.

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Members of RPD's Gang and Narcotics Unit carried out the operation on January 30, 2026, as part of efforts to curb illegal firearms possession and gang-related activity in Rockford neighborhoods.

Authorities said the search resulted in the seizure of one loaded firearm inside of the residence.

Two Rockford Men Taken Into Custody

Police arrested two Rockford men at the scene of the search: 21-year-old Tszarian Wright and 19-year-old Deterrace Dotson.

According to the Winnebago County State's Attorney's Office, Wright faces charges of aggravated unlawful possession of a weapon and possession of a firearm without a valid Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) card.

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Dotson was charged with an outstanding warrant for unlawful possession of a weapon by a gang member, along with possession of a firearm without a valid FOID card.

Both men were lodged in the Winnebago County Jail following authorization of the charges.

Investigation Ongoing

Officials emphasized that the investigation remains active, and additional charges or arrests could follow as detectives continue reviewing evidence. As with all criminal cases, the charges are accusations, and both individuals are innocent until proven guilty in court.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Rockford Police at 815-966-2900, or submit anonymous tips through Rockford Area Crime Stoppers at 815-963-7867.