Joselito Santiago-Matias, Armed Bank Robberies, Massachusetts 2023

BOSTON – In a shocking display of brazen violence, a Lowell man has been sentenced to 76 months in prison for his role in the robberies of three Worcester banks in April 2023.

According to officials, Joselito Santiago-Matias, 38, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman to 76 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. Santiago-Matias was also ordered to pay $20,528 in restitution. In May 2024, Santiago-Matias pleaded guilty to one count of bank robbery and two counts of armed bank robbery.

The robberies, which took place on April 3, 2023, April 12, 2023, and April 19, 2023, left the community shaken. On April 3, 2023, Santiago-Matias entered a Santander Bank in Worcester wearing a mask, demanded money from the teller and carried away $7,560. On April 12, 2023, Santiago-Matais entered a Berkshire Bank in Worcester while wearing a mask and carrying a firearm, pointed the firearm gun at the teller and stole $2,150. On April 19, 2023, Santiago-Matias entered a Santander Bank in Worcester. While inside the bank, he pointed a firearm at the teller and threatened, “give me the bag or I will shoot you.” Santiago-Matias left the bank with $10,818.

Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy praised the efforts of the law enforcement agencies involved in the case. “This sentence is a testament to the tireless efforts of our law enforcement partners in bringing violent offenders to justice,” Levy said. Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division, echoed Levy’s sentiments. “The FBI is committed to keeping our communities safe from violent crime, and we are proud to have played a role in this case.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan D. O’Shea of the Worcester Branch Office prosecuted the case. O’Shea expressed his gratitude to the victims and their families, saying, “We are grateful for the bravery of the victims and their families, who came forward and cooperated with our investigation.”

The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of violent crime on our communities. As we move forward, it is essential that we continue to support our law enforcement agencies and hold offenders accountable for their actions.

With this sentence, justice has been served, and the people of Worcester can rest a little easier knowing that a violent offender is behind bars. As we reflect on this case, let us remember the importance of community safety and the critical role that law enforcement plays in keeping us safe.

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