Jeffrey Townsley, 42, Charged in 9 Armed Robberies in Luzerne County
Scranton, PA – In a brazen 18-day crime spree, Luzerne County resident Jeffrey Townsley, 42, allegedly robbed nine businesses and banks in the area, using a black pellet gun to threaten his victims.
According to United States Attorney Peter Smith, the robberies took place in December 2013 and January 2014. Townsley was arrested on January 13, 2014, and remains in custody at the Lackawanna County Prison.
The charges include two bank robberies and seven robberies of businesses engaged in interstate commerce. Townsley allegedly used a black pellet gun that looked like a 9mm handgun to intimidate his victims.
The FBI, along with local police departments, investigated the crimes. The maximum penalties for the charges include 25 years in prison for bank robbery and 20 years for Hobbs Act robbery. Fines totaling $2.25 million are also possible.
Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski is assigned to the case. A plea agreement has been filed, but it is subject to court approval.
Townsley is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. If found guilty, he could face significant prison time and fines.
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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