Crime & Safety
Peoria, IL Police Seize Guns, Drugs in Major Tuesday Oct 27 Raid
Peoria, IL – A 44 year old Peoria man was arrested Tuesday, Oct. 27, following an ongoing drug investigation that led police to execute a search warrant at a residence and seize two handguns, illegal
By Mara Ellison · 2026-10-28T19:47:18.764Z
Peoria, IL – A 44 year old Peoria man was arrested Tuesday, Oct. 27, following an ongoing drug investigation that led police to execute a search warrant at a residence and seize two handguns, illegal drugs and cash.
According to the Peoria Police Department , officers executed a search warrant at approximately 2:14 p.m. targeting Darnell D. Payton, 44, and a residence in the 400 block of East Thrush Avenue.
The operation was part of an investigation into the alleged unlawful sale of controlled substances in the Peoria area.
Police Locate Suspect Before Search
Before entering the residence, officers located Payton a short distance from the property.
Police said he was taken into custody without incident.
Investigators subsequently searched the residence, where they reported recovering two handguns, illegal drugs and U.S. currency.
Authorities did not specify the quantity of drugs, the amount of cash seized or whether additional individuals were present during the search.
Multiple Allegations Following Investigation
Following the search, officers transported Payton to the Peoria Police Department for questioning.
He was subsequently arrested on allegations of:
Armed violence. Unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon. Unlawful possession with intent to deliver. Unlawful possession of methamphetamine. Unlawful possession of a controlled substance. Payton was transported to the Peoria County Jail following his arrest.
Police Request Information From Public
The Peoria Police Department continues to encourage residents to report information concerning violent crime and illegal drug activity.
Anyone with relevant information can contact the department at 309 673 4521 .
Anonymous tips can be submitted through tip411 or Crime Stoppers at 309 673 9000 .
The department identified the investigation as PPD Incident No. 26 79634 .
Police have not released additional information regarding the suspected drug distribution operation or announced further arrests.
All allegations remain subject to court proceedings, and Payton is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.