A Columbia man was arrested, and a suspect is being sought after they allegedly robbed the Isle of Capri Casino in Boonville of more than $1.2 million on Wednesday, March 25.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control (DDCC) announced on Friday night the arrest of Benjamin Michael-Dass Charles, 21, of Columbia, a casino employee.

At approximately 2:13 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25, two individuals entered the riverboat casino dressed in black, wearing face masks, hats, and sunglasses. One suspect was armed with a rifle and one with a handgun. The suspects went directly to the bank area and stole approximately $1,276,000. While fleeing the casino floor, a casino patron tackled the suspect carrying the rifle, and a fight ensued. The second suspect struck the patron numerous times, allowing the suspects to exit the property.

The two men fled across the river into Howard County, where a chase ensued. The getaway car, an older model, tan Ford Taurus, was found abandoned, and law enforcement officers said they fled the area in another vehicle. Howard County Sheriff Jeff Oswald said the area was canvassed thoroughly by law enforcement as well as Missouri State Highway Patrol aircraft.

During the investigation, Charles, an employee of Isle of Capri Casino, was identified as a suspect, and investigators developed probable cause to arrest him. On March 26, at approximately 7 p.m., Charles was contacted while on duty at the casino by troopers assigned to the patrol's gaming division.

DDCC investigators contacted Charles, advised him of his rights, and interviewed him. Charles was placed under arrest, transported to the Cooper County Jail, and placed on a 24-hour hold. He was charged on Friday with Robbery - First Degree, Assault - First Degree, Armed Criminal Action, and Tampering with Physical Evidence in a Felony Prosecution. Charles is currently in custody at the Cooper County Jail held on a $1,300,000 bond.

The second suspect has been identified as Hollis C. Vanleer Jr., 20, of Normal, Ill. Vanleer is described as a black male, 6 feet 1 inch tall, and approximately 280 pounds.

Vanleer’s current location is unknown. The patrol stated that he should be considered armed and dangerous, and advised anyone who encounters him not to approach, but to immediately call 911.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information related to the crime is encouraged to call Troop F Headquarters at (573) 751-1000. The Boonville Police Department, the Cooper County Sheriff’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and Explosives are assisting with the investigation.