Central City Bank Robber Pleads Guilty

CENTRAL CITY, IL – A brazen daylight robbery at the Farmers State Bank in Central City culminated in a guilty plea this week. George David Treece, 38, of Alabama, admitted to robbing the bank on August 26, 2016, according to a statement released by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois.

The robbery unfolded quickly. Treece entered the bank and allegedly demanded money from a teller. After the teller complied, placing an undisclosed amount of cash on the counter, Treece snatched the money and fled the scene. Law enforcement moved swiftly, apprehending Treece on August 29, 2016, and holding him without bond ever since.

Following his arrest, Treece reportedly confessed to the crime after being read his Miranda rights. United States Attorney Donald S. Boyce announced the guilty plea on December 6, 2016, detailing the potential consequences Treece now faces. He’s looking at a maximum sentence of twenty (20) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and a potential term of supervised release lasting no more than five (5) years. He will also be required to make full restitution to the Farmers State Bank for their financial losses.

The investigation wasn’t a solo effort. Detectives from the Central City Police Department, Centralia Police Department, Wamac Police Department, and agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation all contributed to building the case against Treece. The collaborative effort proved crucial in securing the guilty plea.

Assistant United States Attorney Angela Scott is assigned to the case, and will be responsible for prosecuting Treece. The sentencing hearing is currently scheduled for March 21, 2017, in Benton, Illinois, where a judge will determine the final penalty. Locals are hoping for a sentence that reflects the seriousness of the crime and deters future bank robberies in the quiet Illinois town.

Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the sentencing. The incident serves as a stark reminder that even in seemingly peaceful communities, violent crime remains a constant threat, and law enforcement agencies are working diligently to bring perpetrators to justice.

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