Buffalo Bank Robber Pleads Guilty

A brazen bank robber has been brought to justice after pleading guilty to robbing two Western New York banks in July 2010. Timothy Ernle, 51, of Buffalo, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara to bank robbery.

According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa M. Marangola, Ernle robbed the M&T Bank branch on Delaware Avenue in Kenmore, NY, and the Evans National Bank on South Park Avenue in Hamburg, NY, on two separate occasions. During all three robberies, Ernle disguised himself with a baseball hat, latex gloves and a stocking over his face.

During the heists, Ernle jumped over the teller counters and emptied the drawers, making off with approximately $27,000 in stolen cash. The defendant’s brazen tactics left bank employees shaken, but ultimately led to his downfall.

The investigation into Ernle’s crimes was led by Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Christopher M. Piehota. The guilty plea is a significant development in the case, and brings an end to a year-long investigation.

Ernle is currently serving a state prison sentence for a bank robbery in Niagara County. His sentencing for the new charges is scheduled for October 18, 2013, at 1:30 p.m. before Judge Arcara. The maximum penalty for bank robbery is 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

The guilty plea is a major victory for law enforcement, and serves as a reminder that bank robbers will be caught and brought to justice. As one law enforcement official noted, ‘Bank robbers may think they can get away with it, but ultimately they will be caught and punished.’

The case against Ernle is a stark reminder of the importance of public safety and the need for law enforcement to remain vigilant in the face of crime. As the investigation into Ernle’s crimes continues, it is clear that justice has been served.

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