Jason Smeltzer, Bank Robbery, New Mexico 2023

Bank Robber on the Run: Jason Smeltzer Arrested After Absconding from Halfway House

A brazen bank robber turned himself into a fugitive after absconding from his halfway house in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Jason Smeltzer, 40, was taken into custody on November 18, 2023, after a months-long manhunt.

Smeltzer is accused of robbing five banks in Albuquerque between January 20 and February 23, 2023. During this time, he allegedly targeted four banks, including one that was robbed twice. His crimes sent shockwaves through the community, leaving many wondering how a suspect with such brazen plans could evade capture for so long.

The FBI received a tip through the National Threat Operation Center on January 21, 2023, identifying Smeltzer as a possible suspect. However, it would take several more weeks for authorities to apprehend him. Smeltzer was finally taken into custody on February 23, 2023, after a thorough investigation by the FBI Albuquerque Violent Crimes and Gangs Task Force.

Smeltzer was subsequently charged with five bank robberies and released on pre-trial conditions to La Pasada Halfway House. As part of his release, he was required to submit to location monitoring by a GPS device. However, on May 6, 2023, Smeltzer removed his GPS device and absconded from the halfway house, sparking a massive manhunt.

Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew Nelson and Niki Tapia-Brito are prosecuting the case, which has left many in the community wondering how a suspect with such a clear history of crime could be released on pre-trial conditions. If convicted, Smeltzer faces up to 20 years in prison.

The authorities are urging anyone with information regarding Smeltzer’s whereabouts to come forward. The investigation is ongoing, and those with information are encouraged to contact the FBI or local authorities.

Mandatory Facts: Defendant: Jason Smeltzer, Criminal Charges: Five bank robberies, City: Albuquerque, State: New Mexico, Date: Various dates between January 20 and February 23, 2023, Sentence: Up to 20 years in prison.

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