DATE: 08-26-2026
SUBJECT: Suspect Arrested for Theft of Parcel Containing Handgun
RELEASE NUMBER: 2026-NR-0826
CONTACT: Lt. Matt Schnell
AUTHORITY: Sheriff Noah Robinson
On August 18, 2026, deputies were requested at a local gun store regarding the suspected theft of a parcel containing a firearm. The reporter explained that the firearm had been shipped via UPS to an out-of-state buyer. However, several days after the package was shipped, it had still not been delivered, and no tracking information was available.
A Sheriff’s Office detective assigned as a Task Force Officer with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), along with a special agent from the local ATF field office, began investigating the missing firearm. With the cooperation of the local UPS facility, investigators were able to track the package to the UPS facility.
Upon reviewing security camera footage, investigators observed Miray Arness Smith, a UPS employee, concealing at least two packages rather than processing them through the facility.
On August 25, 2026, the detective and special agent conducted a post-Miranda interview with Smith. During the interview, he admitted to stealing parcels but denied stealing the handgun. Later in the interview, he stated that he could retrieve the handgun and return it to law enforcement if he would not be charged with the theft. Smith refused to provide further information about the whereabouts of the handgun or explain how he would be able to retrieve it.
Smith was taken into custody for the theft of a firearm and lodged in the Vanderburgh County Jail.
SUSPECT:
Miray Arness Smith, Male, 26, Evansville, IN
CHARGE:
Theft of a Firearm – Level 5 Felony
Presumption of Innocence Notice: The fact that a person has been arrested or charged with a crime is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.