Keokuk Man Charged After Allegedly Boarding Coast Guard Vessel

Suspect faces multiple felony counts after incident at riverfront

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A 37-year-old Keokuk man has been charged with several felonies, including second-degree burglary and first-degree criminal mischief, after allegedly boarding a U.S. Coast Guard vessel at the Keokuk riverfront and damaging property. The suspect, Brian Paul Gillham, led police on a brief foot chase before jumping into the Mississippi River, where he was apprehended.

Why it matters

The incident raises concerns about security and public safety at the Keokuk riverfront, which is home to the U.S. Coast Guard depot. Unauthorized access to Coast Guard vessels could pose a potential threat, and the charges against Gillham reflect the seriousness with which authorities view such breaches.

The details

According to the Keokuk Police Department, officers were dispatched to the Coast Guard Depot at 221 Mississippi Drive around 12:33 a.m. after receiving a report of an unidentified person boarding a Coast Guard vessel. Gillham is accused of damaging property and attempting to steal a smaller boat attached to the Coast Guard's vessel. When officers arrived, Gillham allegedly fled on foot along the riverbank before jumping into the Mississippi River. Police followed Gillham into the water and placed him under arrest without further incident.

  • The incident occurred around 12:33 a.m. on February 16, 2026.

The players

Brian Paul Gillham

A 37-year-old Keokuk resident who has been charged with several felonies, including second-degree burglary and first-degree criminal mischief, in connection with the incident.

Keokuk Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the report of Gillham boarding the Coast Guard vessel and apprehended him after a brief pursuit.

U.S. Coast Guard

The federal agency whose vessel was allegedly boarded by Gillham at the Keokuk riverfront.

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What’s next

The judge will determine whether to grant Gillham bail at his upcoming court appearance.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of maintaining security and preventing unauthorized access to sensitive government assets, even in smaller riverfront communities like Keokuk. The charges against Gillham reflect the seriousness with which authorities view such breaches of security.