Bobby Lance: Texas Bank Robber Faces Decades Behind Bars

TEXARKANA, Texas – A brazen crime spree that terrorized East Texas in late 2015 has finally reached its conclusion. Bobby Wayne Lance, 50, of Avery, Texas, was found guilty today on all eight counts related to a string of robberies and a carjacking, a jury decided after a four-day trial before U.S. District Judge Robert W. Schroeder, III. Acting U.S. Attorney Brit Featherston announced the verdict, bringing a measure of closure to a case that haunted the region for years.

The evidence presented in court painted a grim picture of Lance’s actions. The rampage began November 8, 2015, with a robbery at the Cinemark Movies 8 Cinema in Paris, Texas. Just days later, on November 14th, he targeted Carter’s Store and RV Park convenience store near DeKalb, Texas. The culmination of his spree came on November 17, 2015, when he stormed the First National Bank of Mount Vernon, Cypress Springs Branch, in Scroggins, Texas, making off with a staggering $73,946. That same day, Lance escalated his violence by carjacking an innocent individual.

Each of these crimes was committed with a cold disregard for human life, Lance brandishing a handgun throughout. Investigators meticulously linked him to each incident, building a case that ultimately proved his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. A federal grand jury initially indicted Lance on December 16, 2015, setting the stage for the lengthy legal battle that concluded today. The weight of the evidence was overwhelming, a testament to the relentless work of multiple law enforcement agencies.

Now, Lance faces the consequences of his actions. Under federal law, he is looking at a potential sentence of up to 25 years in federal prison. While the maximum sentence is set by Congress, the final determination will rest with Judge Schroeder, who will consider advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A presentence investigation will be conducted by the U.S. Probation Office to provide the judge with a comprehensive assessment of Lance’s background and the impact of his crimes.

The successful prosecution of this case was a collaborative effort. The Federal Bureau of Investigation spearheaded the investigation, receiving crucial support from the Paris Police Department, Texarkana, Texas Police Department, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Red River County Sheriff’s Office, Bowie County Sheriff, and the Texas Rangers. The dedicated work of these agencies ensured that Lance would be brought to justice.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Locker, Robert Wells, and Jonathan Ross skillfully prosecuted the case, presenting a compelling argument that resonated with the jury. They demonstrated Lance’s pattern of violent behavior and his blatant disregard for the law. While no sentence can fully undo the harm caused by Lance’s crimes, today’s verdict sends a clear message: those who prey on innocent communities will be held accountable for their actions. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as sentencing is scheduled.