Waldorf Man Gets Eight Years for Pair of Bold Bank Heists

GREENBELT, MD – Joshua Francisco Miranda, 29, of Waldorf, Maryland, is headed to federal prison for eight years after pleading guilty to robbing two banks within a week in March 2016. U.S. District Judge Theodore D. Chuang handed down the sentence today, also ordering Miranda to serve five years of supervised release following his incarceration and pay $7,800 in restitution.

The brazen robberies unfolded on March 23rd and March 29th, targeting banks in Accokeek and Fort Washington, Maryland, respectively. According to the plea agreement, Miranda entered each bank and presented tellers with a demand note, requesting $5,000. But these weren’t simple requests; the notes explicitly threatened the detonation of a bomb if demands weren’t met, escalating the robberies into potentially deadly situations.

Surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts painted a disturbing picture. In both instances, Miranda was observed with a wire protruding from his shirt sleeve – a crude attempt to bolster the bomb threat. He managed to steal a total of $7,800 from the two banks before law enforcement could apprehend him. The quick work of the FBI Baltimore Field Office and the Prince George’s County Police Department brought the case to a close.

What makes this case particularly galling is Miranda’s history. He was already on parole and probation for three prior state robbery convictions when he committed these latest crimes. A clear pattern of disregard for the law, and a willingness to risk lives for a quick score. This isn’t a first-time offender learning a harsh lesson – it’s a repeat offender doubling down on a dangerous lifestyle.

United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein – a name familiar to many in federal law enforcement – praised the collaborative efforts of the FBI and Prince George’s County Police Department in bringing Miranda to justice. He specifically thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas M. Sullivan for his skillful prosecution of the case.

This sentencing sends a clear message: targeting financial institutions with violence and intimidation will not be tolerated. The Grimy Times will continue to track federal cases like this, shining a light on the criminals who prey on our communities and the dedicated law enforcement officers who work tirelessly to keep us safe. Miranda’s eight-year sentence offers some measure of relief, but the scars of his actions will linger for those who witnessed his threats.

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