The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado has announced that a federal jury has convicted James David Trujillo Jr., a 25-year-old felon from Lakewood, of bank robbery, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and brandishing a weapon during a federal crime of violence. Trujillo was one of two individuals who robbed a Canvas Credit Union in Lakewood on June 15, 2022, armed with an AR-15 and shotgun. The jury returned a guilty verdict on all counts after five hours of deliberations, and Trujillo is scheduled to be sentenced on July 17, 2023. The U.S. Attorney and the FBI’s Rocky Mountain Safe Streets Task Force expressed their gratitude for the jury’s commitment to upholding justice and holding bank robbers accountable. They emphasized that bank robbery is not a victimless crime and that the threat of violence can have a lasting impact on those involved. The investigation was conducted by the FBI’s Rocky Mountain Safe Streets Task Force, and the prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Brian Dunn and Special Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Coccaro.
Case Details
Summary of the Case
In June 2022, James David Trujillo Jr., a 25-year-old resident of Lakewood, was involved in a bank robbery at the Canvas Credit Union on West 5th Avenue in Lakewood. Trujillo and his co-defendant, Darren Michael Connolly, were armed with an AR-15 and a shotgun during the robbery. Both men wore masks and fled the scene in a getaway car. Connolly was arrested the following day, and investigators were able to identify Trujillo as the second robber.
Jury Verdict
After a five-day trial presided over by Judge Christine M. Arguello, a federal jury returned a guilty verdict for Trujillo on all counts on March 17, 2023. Trujillo was convicted of bank robbery, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and brandishing a weapon during a federal crime of violence.
Sentencing Dates
James David Trujillo Jr. is scheduled to be sentenced on July 17, 2023. His co-defendant, Darren Michael Connolly, pleaded guilty to the same charges on February 28, 2023, and is set to be sentenced on July 18, 2023.
Background Information
About the Defendant
James David Trujillo Jr., a resident of Lakewood, is a convicted felon who was involved in the bank robbery at the Canvas Credit Union. Trujillo’s participation in the crime included brandishing a weapon, which led to charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Description of the Crime
On June 15, 2022, Trujillo and his co-defendant Connolly robbed the Canvas Credit Union in Lakewood. They were armed with an AR-15 and a shotgun, and both men wore masks to conceal their identities. The robbers fled the scene in a getaway car after successfully completing the robbery.
Investigation and Arrest
FBI Involvement
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was involved in the investigation of the bank robbery at the Canvas Credit Union. The FBI’s Rocky Mountain Safe Streets Task Force played a crucial role in identifying and apprehending the perpetrators.
Identification of the Second Robber
Investigators were able to determine the identity of the second robber involved in the bank robbery shortly after the crime occurred. This information, combined with the arrest of Darren Michael Connolly, led to the successful prosecution of James David Trujillo Jr.
Arrest of Darren Michael Connolly
Darren Michael Connolly, the co-defendant in the bank robbery case, was arrested on June 16, 2022, the day after the robbery took place. Connolly was wearing a GPS bracelet at the time of the crime, which helped law enforcement locate and apprehend him.
Trial Proceedings
Judge’s Name
The trial of James David Trujillo Jr. was presided over by Judge Christine M. Arguello.
Trial Duration
The trial lasted for five days, during which the prosecution presented evidence and witness testimonies to establish Trujillo’s involvement in the bank robbery.
Deliberation Time
After five hours of deliberation, the jury returned a guilty verdict, convicting James David Trujillo Jr. on all counts related to the bank robbery.
Verdict
The jury found James David Trujillo Jr. guilty of bank robbery, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and brandishing a weapon during a federal crime of violence.
Co-defendant’s Plea
Plea Agreement
Darren Michael Connolly, the co-defendant in the bank robbery case, pleaded guilty to the same charges as James David Trujillo Jr. on February 28, 2023. Connolly’s guilty plea likely included an agreement to provide testimony or cooperation in the prosecution of Trujillo.
Sentencing Date
Darren Michael Connolly is scheduled to be sentenced on July 18, 2023, following his guilty plea in the bank robbery case.
Statements from Authorities
United States Attorney
United States Attorney Cole Finegan expressed gratitude to the jury and the FBI’s Rocky Mountain Safe Streets Task Force for their dedication in upholding justice and holding bank robbers accountable. Finegan emphasized that such brazen criminal conduct would not be tolerated in the community.
FBI Special Agent in Charge
Denver FBI Special Agent in Charge Mark Michalek highlighted the impact of bank robberies, stating that the threat of violence in these incidents can have a lasting and traumatic effect on the victims. Michalek praised the collaborative efforts of the FBI, local partners, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in pursuing federal prosecution and working towards reducing violence in the community.
Law Enforcement Involvement
FBI’s Rocky Mountain Safe Streets Task Force
The FBI’s Rocky Mountain Safe Streets Task Force played a pivotal role in investigating the bank robbery at the Canvas Credit Union. The task force, in collaboration with local law enforcement partners, worked to identify and apprehend the individuals responsible for the crime.
Prosecution Team
Assistant United States Attorney Brian Dunn and Special Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Coccaro handled the prosecution of James David Trujillo Jr. Their work included presenting evidence, examining witnesses, and making arguments to secure a guilty verdict.
Project Safe Neighborhoods
Program Overview
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is an initiative that aims to reduce violent crime and gun violence in communities by bringing together law enforcement at all levels and the communities they serve. The program focuses on fostering trust and legitimacy, supporting community-based organizations, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results of crime reduction efforts.
Contact Information
Public Affairs Specialist
For further information or media inquiries, please contact Deborah Takahara, Public Affairs Specialist, at deborah.takahara@usdoj.gov.
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