A dramatic heist at Citizens Bank in Crafton has led to charges against two Pittsburgh residents, according to federal authorities.
The three-count indictment alleges that Brent Richards, 32, robbed the Citizens Bank at 31 Foster Avenue on January 8, 2018, of $10,003. Richards is accused of brandishing a firearm in the commission of the robbery.
Richards faces a maximum total sentence of 25 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both, for the armed bank robbery count. Additionally, he faces a minimum sentence of not less than five years in prison and up to life, a fine of $250,000, or both, for the firearms offense.
Melissa Kane, 47, has been charged as an accessory after the fact for her alleged role in helping to protect Richards from apprehension. Kane faces a maximum total sentence of 12.5 years in prison, a fine of $125,000, or both.
The investigation was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Crafton Borough Police Department, the Allegheny County Sherriff’s Office, and the West Mifflin Police Department.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rebecca L. Silinski and Timothy M. Lanni are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Citizens Bank at 31 Foster Avenue was the site of the alleged armed robbery on January 8, 2018. Richards is accused of brandishing a firearm during the robbery.
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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