Show-Me State Times

A St. Louis County man, Terrence Gleason, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for a series of robberies at QuikTrip stores in the area. U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Clark handed down the sentence, highlighting the severity of Gleason's crimes.

According to court proceedings, Gleason, now 53, of Bel Ridge, Missouri, targeted multiple QuikTrip locations, engaging in theft and armed robberies. One of the incidents occurred at a store in Bel Ridge, where Gleason stole cigarettes and brandished a firearm to intimidate the clerks.

During the sentencing, it was revealed that Gleason's criminal activities were not isolated incidents. In one instance, he returned to the same QuikTrip store multiple times, instilling fear in the employees and customers. His actions involved not only theft but also the display of firearms to coerce compliance.

Gleason's criminal behavior extended to other QuikTrip locations, where he and an accomplice executed similar thefts at gunpoint. The escalating nature of his crimes led to serious charges, including robbery, possession and brandishing of a firearm, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.

The investigation into Gleason's actions involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, the Normandy Police Department, the St. Ann Police Department, and the Hazelwood Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Szczucinski prosecuted the case, ensuring that Gleason was held accountable for his actions.

In light of the evidence presented and the impact of Gleason's crimes on the community, Judge Clark issued a stern sentence of 20 years in prison. The sentencing serves as a reminder of the consequences of engaging in violent criminal activities and the commitment of law enforcement to ensure public safety.

As the case comes to a close, the communities affected by Gleason's actions can find solace in knowing that justice has been served, and a repeat offender has been removed from their streets.