Lake County Gazette

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office has announced the successful conclusion of a joint investigation with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Chicago Field Division, resulting in the arrests of two individuals accused of illegal firearm trafficking.

According to a news release by Lake County, in August 2025, the Special Investigations Group and ATF began investigating Najzierian K. Myers, a 25-year-old from North Chicago, for suspected gun trafficking. Detectives determined that Myers sold four firearms to undercover officers and was allegedly planning violent criminal acts. The investigation also identified Blake Everett, 26, from Gurnee, who reportedly purchased a firearm for Myers. Everett was arrested on October 13, 2025, when he arrived to deliver the gun.

At the same time, the sheriff’s SWAT team apprehended Myers after a brief pursuit during which he struck a squad car and a parked vehicle before fleeing on foot. He was taken into custody and later treated at a hospital where he remains in stable condition. Investigators recovered a stolen firearm, ecstasy pills, and a digital scale. Both individuals face multiple felony charges approved by the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office.

Lake County Sheriff John D. Idleburg expressed his satisfaction with the operation's outcome: "I’m proud of the outstanding collaboration and professionalism shown by our Special Investigations Group and the ATF – Chicago Field Division in bringing this operation to a successful resolution." Idleburg added that SIG works diligently to enhance community safety by arresting violent individuals and removing illegally possessed weapons from public areas.

The Lake County Sheriff's Office is tasked with maintaining order and upholding laws while protecting individual rights within the community. The office emphasizes service through education, communication, partnerships, and enforcement to build public trust. It adheres to core values such as integrity, respect, and professionalism and holds accreditation for compliance with recognized law enforcement standards. Established in 1839 alongside Lake County's founding, it has expanded over time with notable additions like the 1895 jail and courthouse.