Gun Stolen By Dillinger Gang To Be Returned To Auburn,Indiana P.D.

AUBURN, Ind.- Thursday, Special Agent in Charge Robert A. Jones of the Indianapolis Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation will return a very important piece of history that had been stolen over 80 years ago from the city’s Police Department.

On October 14, 1933, members of the John Dillinger gang entered the Auburn Police Department and proceeded to rob the department of bullet proof vests, ammunition, and several firearms, including a .45 caliber Thompson sub-machine gun.

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Shortly after the heist, the Thompson was recovered by the Tucson, Arizona Police Department from Dillinger and his gang. The Tucson Police eventually transferred the Thompson to the FBI where it remained for over 45 years until discovered and plans were made to return it to its rightful owners.

The Officers of Auburn Police Department have initiated plans to preserve and display this piece of history for all to enjoy when visiting Auburn and sharing in its diverse, small town history.
Special recognition goes to retired Auburn Police Sergeant Edward McDonald for all of his efforts in attempting to locate and secure the return of the Thompson. Unfortunately, Sgt. McDonald passed away last year before getting the opportunity to see the Thompson returned to the police department he served for so many years.