Man Sentenced to 8 Years for Role in Grand Chute Armed Robbery

Cory Schmitz convicted of being party to armed robbery, receives 8-year prison term and extended supervision

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Cory Schmitz, 36, was sentenced to 8 years in prison for his role in an armed robbery at a Grand Chute coin store in 2024. Schmitz was convicted of being party to the armed robbery, with four other counts dismissed. He was also placed on 8 years of extended supervision and must contribute to $28,190.94 in shared restitution.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of violent crimes and the challenges of prosecuting accomplices in complex robbery cases. The sentencing of Schmitz, along with the previous sentences of the other co-defendants, demonstrates the serious consequences for those involved in such brazen and dangerous crimes.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, in August 2024, Beau Wastel walked into Affordable Rare Coins in Grand Chute, Wisconsin, asked to see a baseball card, and then struck an employee in the head with a pipe wrench when the employee bent down. Wastel then ran after the employee, continuing to swing the wrench, before going back into the store, smashing a display case, and fleeing with stolen property. Police later identified Schmitz as having introduced Wastel to Michael Thorpe, who had told Wastel the robbery would be an "easy lick" and they would get around $15,000. Thorpe later pawned some of the stolen coins using a fake ID and received $300.

  • On August 10, 2024, the armed robbery took place at Affordable Rare Coins in Grand Chute.
  • In 2026, on February 12, Cory Schmitz was sentenced to 8 years in prison for his role in the robbery.

The players

Cory Schmitz

A 36-year-old man convicted of being party to the armed robbery at Affordable Rare Coins in Grand Chute.

Beau Wastel

The individual who committed the robbery at Affordable Rare Coins, walking in wearing a wig and dress and striking an employee with a pipe wrench before stealing merchandise.

Michael Thorpe

An accomplice who told Wastel the robbery would be an "easy lick" and they would get around $15,000, and later pawned some of the stolen coins using a fake ID.

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What they’re saying

“I would try to use the prison time to improve my life 'as best as possible.'”

— Cory Schmitz (FOX 11 News)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Cory Schmitz out on bail pending his appeal.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenge of prosecuting accomplices in violent crimes, as well as the need for stronger measures to prevent and deter such brazen robberies that put innocent lives at risk in the community.