Damboise Gets 8+ Years for Manchester Bank Heist

PORTLAND, Maine – A brazen daylight robbery of a Manchester bank has landed Clinton Damboise, 47, of Belgrade, Maine, behind bars for over eight years. U.S. District Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr. handed down the 98-month sentence today, followed by three years of supervised release, for the September 2016 heist at the Camden National Bank.

The robbery wasn’t subtle. According to court records, Damboise walked into the bank and immediately announced, “This is a robbery, not a joke.” He then escalated the threat, gesturing towards his waistband and claiming he was armed with a firearm. A terrified teller complied, handing over $3,179 in cash. Damboise then fled the scene, leaving a clear trail for investigators.

Despite not bothering with a mask – a rookie mistake for any stick-up artist – Damboise was quickly identified. The teller positively recognized him, and the bank’s security cameras provided undeniable footage of the crime. It took time, but law enforcement eventually caught up with him. He pleaded guilty on September 27, 2021, finally admitting to the charge.

The investigation wasn’t a solo effort. The FBI took the lead, but received crucial support from the Maine State Police, the Kennebec County Sheriff’s Office, and even the Southington (Connecticut) Police Department. It’s a reminder that even small-town crimes can have far-reaching investigative threads.

Judge Woodcock didn’t just send Damboise to prison; he also ordered him to pay full restitution of $3,179 to Camden National Bank, attempting to recoup the stolen funds. While the money won’t erase the fear he instilled in the teller, it’s a small measure of accountability.

Damboise’s case is a stark reminder that bank robbery, while seemingly a crime of desperation, carries serious consequences. Eight years is a hefty price to pay for a few thousand dollars and a foolish gamble. He’ll have plenty of time to contemplate his choices while serving his sentence. The Grimy Times will continue to follow federal crime cases across the nation.

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