Francis McBride, Bank Robbery, Pennsylvania 2014

A string of bank robberies and attempted bank heists in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York have landed a 27-year-old Scranton man in hot water with the law. Francis McBride, 27, was charged with 16 counts of bank robbery, attempted bank robbery, and interference with commerce by threats or violence.

According to the United States Attorney Peter Smith, McBride allegedly carried out a series of attempted bank robberies and one successful bank robbery from March through August 2014. The successful robbery took place in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, while the attempted robberies occurred in the same three states, as well as in Scranton and Moosic, Pennsylvania. In addition to the bank robberies, McBride also allegedly robbed four gas stations/convenience stores in Scranton and Moosic.

McBride was arrested in August 2014 and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years’ incarceration and a $250,000 fine for each count in the information. The investigation was conducted by the Scranton office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Scranton Police Department, with Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski handling the case.

Indictments and criminal informations are only allegations, and all persons charged are presumed innocent until found guilty in court. A sentence following a finding of guilty is imposed by the judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

The Federal Sentencing Guidelines require the judge to consider several factors when determining the sentence, including the nature, circumstances, and seriousness of the offense, the history and characteristics of the defendant, and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public, and provide for the defendant’s educational, vocational, and medical needs.

McBride’s case is a stark reminder of the serious consequences of committing crimes such as bank robbery. The public can take comfort in knowing that law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to bring perpetrators to justice and keep our communities safe.

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