Glendive Gun Offender Banks Sentenced to 30 Months

Former Glendive resident Frank Banks, 59, was sentenced to 30 months in prison and two years of supervised release for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters in Billings.

Banks had previously been notified by law enforcement that he was outside the Manor Apartments in Glendive, holding a gun. During a subsequent search of his apartment in December 2015, police discovered a Hi-Point, model C9, 9mm Luger semi-automatic pistol, ammunition, and rounds of 9mm ammunition.

Prosecutors highlighted Banks’ extensive criminal history, noting that he had been involved with the criminal justice system since age 18. The sentencing memorandum stressed the government’s interest in protecting the public and restricting improper access to firearms.

In a letter to the court, Banks acknowledged his guilt on the charges. The investigation into Banks’ case was led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from local and federal agencies.

The sentence is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a Department of Justice program aimed at reducing violent crime in Montana. The U.S. Attorney’s Office continues to collaborate with law enforcement to identify and hold accountable those responsible for significant violent crime in the state.