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Convenience Store Robberies Rock Tampa
Leanna Bryant, a 28-year-old Tampa resident, pleaded guilty to two convenience store robberies, conspiracy to commit those robberies, and aiding and abetting the brandishing of a firearm during those robberies, according to the United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe.
The crimes took place in August 2023, when Bryant conspired with others to rob two convenience stores. During the robberies, a firearm was used and brandished, causing fear among the victims and employees.
A thorough investigation led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the Tampa Police Department, the Temple Terrace Police Department, the Lakeland Police Department, and the North Port Police Department uncovered crucial evidence. License plate readers detected a vehicle’s license plate near both robbery locations, close in time to when each of the robberies had occurred. Bryant’s fingerprints were found in the vehicle.
As a result of the guilty plea, Bryant faces up to 20 years in prison on each of the robbery counts. For each of the firearms counts, she faces a minimum sentence of seven years, up to life, in federal prison—consecutive to any other sentence. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman is prosecuting the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence in communities across the United States.
According to the United States Attorney, Bryant’s conviction is a significant step towards making Tampa safer for its residents. The Project Safe Neighborhoods program was launched in 2021, with the goal of fostering trust and legitimacy in communities, supporting community-based organizations, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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