KVET and CRT Recover Stolen Firearm During Directed Patrol
Published on July 08, 2026
On June 30th, 2026, members of the Kalamazoo Valley Enforcement Team (KVET) and Crime Reduction Team (CRT) were conducting a directed patrol focusing on addressing gun violence in the City of Kalamazoo. The intention of this operation was to locate and apprehend those who are illegally possessing firearms. During the operation, KVET / CRT observed a subject illegally concealing a firearm on his person in the 1100 block of Lake St in the City of Kalamazoo. This subject was known to KVET / CRT as he had been previously arrested for illegally carrying a firearm.
The suspect was contacted and detained without incident. A search of his person yielded a loaded firearm equipped with an extended magazine, concealed in his waistband. Additionally, the firearm had been reported stolen to the Michigan State Police in 2024.
The 20-year-old male, who has been previously convicted of felony charges and cannot legally possess a firearm or ammunition, was arrested and lodged at the Kalamazoo County Jail on the following charges:
- Weapons – Carrying Concealed
- Weapons – Firearms – Possession by a Prohibited Person
- Weapons – Ammunition – Possession by a Prohibited Person
- Weapons – Firearms – Receiving & Concealing
- Weapons – Felony Firearm
On July 2nd, 2026, the suspect was arraigned in the 8th district court. The suspect, identified as Melakai Leshawn Robinson, was issued a $25,000 cash or surety bond.
If you have information about this case, please call KVET at 269-337-8880. You can also submit an anonymous tip through the Kalamazoo Silent Observer tip line at 269-343-2100, the “P3Tips” app, or online at www.KalamazooSilentObserver.com.
By authority of: Sergeant Ryan Perez