Peoria Man Arrested for Drugs, Stolen Gun, and Malnourished Dogs

Edward Jackson faces up to 40 years in prison for alleged drug and weapon charges, as well as animal cruelty.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 8:23pm

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A 43-year-old Peoria, Illinois man named Edward Jackson was arrested after police allegedly found large quantities of heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine in his home, along with a stolen 9mm handgun and 16 malnourished and injured dogs that appeared to be used for dogfighting. Jackson was charged with drug possession with intent to distribute and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Why it matters

This case highlights the intersection of drug trafficking, illegal firearms, and animal cruelty in Peoria's North Valley neighborhood. The discovery of the drugs, stolen gun, and mistreated dogs raises concerns about public safety and the need for stronger enforcement and rehabilitation programs to address the root causes of these interconnected issues.

The details

According to prosecutors, police executed a raid on Jackson's home and found 382 grams of heroin, 240 grams of methamphetamine, and some cocaine, along with scales, baggies, and four cell phones - evidence of drug dealing. They also discovered a stolen 9mm handgun and a box of ammunition in his bedroom. In the home's basement, authorities found 16 malnourished and injured dogs, as well as equipment used for dogfighting.

  • On March 28, 2026, police raided Jackson's home and made the drug, gun, and animal abuse discoveries.
  • Jackson is scheduled to appear in court again on April 23, 2026.

The players

Edward Jackson

A 43-year-old Peoria resident who was arrested and charged with drug possession with intent to distribute, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and animal cruelty related to the discovery of drugs, a stolen gun, and malnourished dogs in his home.

Greg Siepel

The prosecutor who argued for Jackson to be held in custody pending trial, citing the public safety risk of the drug and gun charges, as well as the involvement of Jackson's 16-year-old son in the home.

Judge David Brown

The judge who sided with the prosecutor, stating that the combination of drugs and guns posed a serious public safety issue, and that the presence of Jackson's teenage son in the home was also a concerning factor.

Peoria Police Department

The law enforcement agency that executed the raid on Jackson's home and uncovered the drugs, stolen gun, and mistreated dogs.

Peoria County Animal Control

The agency that took custody of the 16 malnourished and injured dogs found in Jackson's home and is conducting a separate investigation into the animal cruelty allegations.

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What they’re saying

“Having drugs and guns together is a very dangerous combination.”

— Judge David Brown

What’s next

The judge ordered Jackson held in custody pending the outcome of the case. He is scheduled to appear in court again on April 23, 2026. If convicted on all charges, he could face up to 40 years in prison.

The takeaway

This case underscores the complex web of issues facing communities like Peoria's North Valley, where drug trafficking, illegal firearms, and animal abuse intersect. It highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of these interconnected problems and protect public safety.