Bomb Threat at Rockford Hard Rock Casino, Armed Arrest Hours Later

Two separate incidents near Rockford entertainment spots lead to terrorism, weapons, and drug charges as Illinois police make swift arrests.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Rockford Police responded to a bomb threat at the Hard Rock Casino on Tuesday afternoon, leading to the arrest of 32-year-old Joshua Ellsworth on charges of Disorderly Conduct for a False Bomb Threat and Terrorism. Hours later, police arrested 29-year-old Jacob Bennett at a local bar, charging him with multiple felonies including Armed Violence, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon by a Felon, and drug possession after he allegedly fled police and discarded a loaded firearm.

Why it matters

These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in maintaining public safety, especially at high-traffic entertainment venues. The quick response and arrests by Rockford Police underscore their commitment to addressing threats and criminal activity in the community.

The details

According to police, Ellsworth called in a bomb threat to the Hard Rock Casino around 3:40 pm on Tuesday. He was taken into custody at his residence without incident. Bennett was arrested at BJ's Place bar after officers received a tip he was wanted. Bennett allegedly fled police, throwing a loaded handgun, before being apprehended. Officers also recovered a switchblade, Suboxone pill, and over 13 grams of cocaine.

  • The bomb threat was called in around 3:40 pm on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
  • The arrest at BJ's Place bar occurred later that same evening on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

The players

Joshua Ellsworth

A 32-year-old Rockford resident charged with Disorderly Conduct for a False Bomb Threat and Terrorism in relation to the threat called in to the Hard Rock Casino.

Jacob Bennett

A 29-year-old Rockford man arrested at a local bar and charged with multiple felonies including Armed Violence, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon by a Felon, and drug possession.

Hard Rock Casino

A popular gaming and concert venue in Rockford, Illinois that received a bomb threat on Tuesday afternoon.

Rockford Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to both the bomb threat at the Hard Rock Casino and the arrest at BJ's Place bar, making swift arrests in both incidents.

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What they’re saying

“While both cases unfolded at or near places known for nightlife and entertainment, police stress that these incidents were isolated and investigations remain ongoing.”

— Rockford Police (1440wrok.com)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Thursday whether to grant bail for Joshua Ellsworth, who is currently being held in the Winnebago County Jail.

The takeaway

These incidents underscore the ongoing need for vigilance and coordination between law enforcement and entertainment venues to maintain public safety, even as Rockford Police demonstrated their ability to quickly respond to and address potential threats to the community.