A Yates City man is in custody following alleged threats he made to use an explosive device. Late Friday night, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a Yates City residence after receiving reports of a suspected explosive device and threats to use it. Multiple agencies, including the Knox County Sheriff’s Office and the Peoria Police Bomb Squad, secured the area and conducted a safe, comprehensive search. Suspicious items were collected for evidence, and officials confirm there’s no ongoing threat to the community. Robert L. Cassel, 58, was arrested and faces charges of making a terrorist threat and disorderly conduct. Authorities express gratitude to local agencies and residents for their cooperation during the investigation.
“The Knox County Sheriff’s Office extends special thanks to the Knox County State’s Attorney’s Office for their assistance throughout this investigation. Their partnership ensured a thorough and timely legal response to this serious incident.”
Authorities in Knox County conducted a late-night operation on November 22, 2025, at a Yates City residence, responding to reports of a suspected explosive device and threats from a suspect to use it. The Knox County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Galesburg Police Department, the Peoria Police Department Bomb Squad, the Yates City Police Department, BYE, and the Yates City Fire Department, secured the scene and executed a court-authorized search warrant. Specialized units safely searched the property and collected suspicious items as evidence.
All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
