Yates City, IL – A Yates City man has been arrested after authorities executed a court-authorized search warrant in response to a report of a possible explosive device and related threats, according to the Knox County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident occurred late on November 22, 2025, when deputies—assisted by the Galesburg and Peoria Police Departments, the Peoria Bomb Squad, Yates City Police, and the Yates City Fire Department—conducted a thorough search of a residence in Yates City.
Investigators say all suspicious items located inside the home were safely collected as evidence. The situation was resolved without incident, and officials confirm there is no ongoing threat to the public.
At the conclusion of the search, Robert L. Cassel, 58, of Yates City, was arrested and charged with:
- Making a Terrorist Threat (720 ILCS 5/29D-20)
- Disorderly Conduct (720 ILCS 5/26-1(a)(1))
The Knox County State’s Attorney’s Office assisted in the case, which authorities described as a “serious incident requiring a coordinated response.”
Sheriff’s officials thanked multiple partnering agencies for their assistance and the community of Yates City for its cooperation.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
