Multiple people arrested after investigation into 3 armed robberies

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Rockford Police arrested multiple people on several charges stemming from an investigation into a series of armed robberies.

Officers received reports of three different armed robberies spanning from December 28, 2024, to February 6, 2025. Victims told officials their phones and money were taken from them when they were held at gunpoint.

One of the incidents involved an arranged meeting to sell cannabis, authorities reported. Officials connected all three incidents to each other after the investigation.

Police determined Elijah Woodson, 22, and Marquel Woodson, 21, were the suspects.

Officers found the suspects in the 1200 block of 6th Avenue during a search.

Authorities found two loaded firearms and cannabis during the search.

During the search, Maurice Woodson, 23, Swennekia Woodson, 18, and Omareon Loper, 22, were all arrested as well.

Marquel Woodson is charged with two counts of conspiracy to commit armed robbery, possession of a machine gun and possession of a firearm without a FOID card. The machine gun charge comes from a warrant in Indiana.

Elijah Woodson is charged with armed robbery and vehicle theft. The theft charge comes from a warrant in Cook County.

Maurice Woodson is charged with unlawful use of a weapon by a felon and obstructing justice.

Swennekia Woodson is charged with possession of cannabis with intent to deliver.

Loper is charged with failure to appear in court for a DUI charge in Winnebago County.