Third man sentenced in Grand Chute coin store robbery

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An Appleton man named Cory Schmitz has been sentenced to 8 years in prison for his involvement in the 2024 armed robbery of Affordable Rare Coins in Grand Chute, Wisconsin. Schmitz was one of three men accused of robbing the rare coin store, during which the store clerk was struck in the head with a wrench. The two other men, Beau Wastel and Michael Thorpe, are already serving prison terms for their roles in the crime.

Why it matters

Robberies of small businesses like rare coin stores can have a significant impact on the local community, both in terms of financial losses and a sense of safety. This case highlights the need for strong law enforcement and sentencing to deter such violent crimes.

The details

Cory Schmitz was sentenced in Outagamie County Court to 8 years in prison and 8 years of extended supervision for being party to the armed robbery of Affordable Rare Coins in August 2024. During the robbery, the store clerk was struck in the head with a wrench. Schmitz was one of three men accused in the crime, with the other two, Beau Wastel and Michael Thorpe, already serving prison terms.

• In August 2024, the armed robbery of Affordable Rare Coins occurred.
• On February 17, 2026, Cory Schmitz was sentenced to 8 years in prison and 8 years of extended supervision.