Justin Jr Watchman, Bank Robbery, New Mexico 2018

Farmington Man Pleads Guilty to Bank Robbery Charge After Handing Note to Teller Demanding Money

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A local man has pleaded guilty to bank robbery after handing a note to a bank teller demanding money. Justin Jr Watchman, 26, of Farmington, New Mexico, entered the guilty plea without the benefit of a plea agreement.

The crime occurred on August 17, 2018 at the First Convenience Bank located inside the Walmart at 4600 East Main Street in Farmington. Watchman handed the bank teller a note demanding money, and later that same day, Farmington Police Department (FPD) officers located him.

At the time of his arrest, Watchman was found to be in possession of a video game system still in the manufacturer’s box and a one-way bus ticket. The FBI arrested Watchman in August 2018, and he will remain in custody pending his sentencing hearing, which has yet to be scheduled.

Watchman faces a statutory maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine. This case was investigated by the Albuquerque office of the FBI and the FPD. Assistant U.S. Attorney Howard Thomas is prosecuting the case.

The guilty plea is a significant development in the case, and it is expected that Watchman will be sentenced accordingly. The outcome of the case serves as a reminder of the severity of bank robbery and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their crimes.

In related news, the FBI continues to investigate and prevent bank robberies across the country. The agency urges citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

Watchman's sentencing hearing has yet to be scheduled, but it is expected that he will face the maximum penalties for his crime. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of community policing and the role that law enforcement plays in keeping our communities safe.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-nm/pr/farmington-man-pleads-guilty-federal-bank-robbery-charge