Ross A. Bertucci Gets 6 Years for Armed Bank Robbery Attempt

Ross A. Bertucci, 32, of New York State, was sentenced to 72 months in federal prison on February 13, 2017, after pleading guilty to the attempted armed robbery of two banks in Wausaukee, Wisconsin. The charges, filed under Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(a), carry the weight of federal prosecution and reflect the severity of pointing a loaded firearm at financial institutions.

Bertucci targeted both the State Bank of Florence and Stephenson National Bank, arriving armed and prepared to strike. But his plan unraveled fast. An alert citizen flagged his bizarre behavior and suspicious attire to law enforcement. By the time Bertucci reached each bank, staff had already locked down entry points—denying him access and effectively killing the robbery before it could escalate.

Under the terms of his plea agreement, Bertucci admitted he carried a loaded firearm during both attempted heists in Marinette County. Though no shots were fired and no money was taken, the presence of a live weapon elevated the crime to a federal offense. The attempted robberies unfolded in rapid succession, showing planning, intent, and a willingness to use violence for financial gain.

At sentencing in Green Bay federal court, Chief U.S. District Judge William C. Griesbach didn’t mince words. He labeled the crimes “very serious” and pointed to Bertucci’s criminal past as evidence of a repeat offender driven by greed. Multiple bank employees spoke during the hearing, describing lingering fear and trauma—voices the judge said he would not ignore when handing down punishment.

The investigation was led by the Marinette County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with support from the Marinette County District Attorney’s Office. Their swift coordination ensured Bertucci was apprehended before he could harm anyone or succeed in his criminal objective. The case underscores the importance of public vigilance in preventing violent crime.

Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble prosecuted the case, securing a sentence that matches the threat Bertucci posed. U.S. Attorney Gregory J. Haanstad, overseeing the Eastern District of Wisconsin, confirmed the outcome sends a clear message: attempted armed robbery won’t be tolerated, and those who target communities will face full federal consequences.