Bank Robber Sentenced

BUFFALO, N.Y.–In a shocking turn of events, Jason Berg, a 22-year-old Buffalo native, pleaded guilty to a string of bank robberies that shook the city in 2013. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.

According to sources close to the investigation, Berg robbed the First Niagara Bank, located at 1000 Elmwood Avenue in Buffalo, on April 26, 2013. He then robbed the M&T Bank, located at 788 Tonawanda St. in Buffalo, on May 16, 2013 and the M&T Bank, located at 1580 Hertel Avenue in Buffalo, on June 12, 2013. In each of the robberies, Berg passed notes to the bank tellers indicating he possessed a firearm and demanded specific amounts of money.

The plea is the result of a joint investigation by the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Daniel Derenda, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Brian P. Boetig, and the Niagara Falls Police Department, under the direction of Chief Bryan DalPorto.

The community is breathing a sigh of relief as Berg’s string of violent heists comes to an end. ‘We are glad that the perpetrator has been brought to justice,’ said a spokesperson for the Buffalo Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Catherine Baumgarten, who is handling the case, stated that the defendant’s actions were a threat to public safety and that his guilty plea is a significant step towards justice.

Sentencing is scheduled for April 18, 2014 at 12:30 p.m. before Judge Richard J. Arcara. The community is eagerly awaiting the outcome of the sentencing and hopes that Berg will receive the maximum penalty for his crimes.

As the city of Buffalo continues to rebuild and recover from the aftermath of these heists, residents are reminded that justice has been served and that those who commit violent crimes will be held accountable.

RELATED: Texas Courier Admits to Cross-Country Coke Run

RELATED: Texas Courier Admits Role in Cross-Country Coke Pipeline