A semi-automatic rifle was stolen from an off-duty deputy’s marked patrol car over the weekend.
Rutherford County Deputy Scott Parker said he locked the weapon in his vehicle while his home was being shown to potential buyers. He realized the rifle had been stolen on Sunday and called the sheriff’s office.
The theft is considered to be a federal crime and the weapon has been entered into the National Crime Information Center database.
Authorities said the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms has been notified.
The ATF has offered a reward of up to $1,500 for information leading to an arrest. You can call 1-800-ATF-GUNS or Detective Steve Kohler at 615-904-3046.
Rutherford County Crime Stoppers has offered a reward of up to $1,000 in the case by calling 615-893-STOP (893-7867).
The sheriff’s office said it’s conducting an internal review to determine if weapon storage policies were followed.
NewsChannel 5 has discovered the rifle theft wasn't the first crime reported at Deputy Parker's home this year.
