Kewanee Police have arrested 20-year-old Natanael Camacho on two separate occasions in August. The first arrest occurred during a traffic stop, where authorities discovered weapons and suspected drugs. Just a week later, Camacho was again taken into custody, this time in connection with several vehicle burglaries. Officers recovered stolen property, controlled substances, and cannabis during the arrest. Camacho faces multiple felony and misdemeanor charges stemming from both incidents. Local officials say the investigations are ongoing, and additional charges may be considered as more evidence is reviewed. Residents are urged to report any suspicious activity in their neighborhoods.
Three individuals were stopped by police just after midnight on August 17th in the 500 block of South Main Street. Authorities identified the driver as Braden Merritt, 19, of East Peoria, with Natanael Camacho, 20, of Kewanee, and a 17-year-old juvenile as passengers. During a vehicle search, officers found a 9mm pistol, ammunition, an estimated 37 grams of suspected cocaine, nearly 770 grams of cannabis, around $2,500 in cash, a digital scale, and other related items. Merritt and Camacho were released pending a court date, while the juvenile was released to a parent. A first appearance is scheduled for October 13, 2025.
Police responded to the 700 block of South Tremont Avenue on August 24th for a report of a suspicious individual at a residence. Officers found Camacho on-site, intoxicated and in possession of burglary tools, stolen property, nearly $500 in cash, multiple THC vapes, pills suspected to be controlled substances, over 400 grams of cannabis, and packaging materials. Investigators linked Camacho to two vehicle burglaries at the scene and discovered a 9mm pistol nearby. Charges now include multiple felonies related to burglary, drug possession, and intent to deliver, alongside misdemeanors for theft and underage alcohol consumption. The investigation is still ongoing.
Camacho is charged with Burglary (Class 3 Felony), Possession of Cannabis 30–500 grams with Intent to Deliver (Class 3 Felony), Possession of Cannabis 30–500 grams (Class 4 Felony), Possession of a Controlled Substance (Class 4 Felony), Possession of Cannabis 30–500 grams (Class 4 Felony), Consumption of Liquor by a Minor (Class A Misdemeanor), and two counts of Theft under $500 (Class A Misdemeanor). Camacho is in the custody of the Henry County jail. A Preliminary Hearing is scheduled for September 8, 2025, at 1 PM.
