Related Federal Cases
Mansfield Man Charged in Attempted Bank Heist
A 25-year-old Mansfield man has been charged with attempting to rob a local bank, authorities announced today. Joseph A. Smith, Jr., 25, of Mansfield, is facing two federal counts in connection with the attempted armed bank robbery and brandishing a weapon during a crime of violence.
According to the indictment, on November 12, 2014, Smith attempted to rob the Directions Credit Union located at 460 South Diamond Street, Mansfield, Ohio. The indictment alleges that he brandished a firearm during the attempted robbery.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Mansfield Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Mansfield Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Linda H. Barr.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Smith is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The sentence for Smith will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including his prior criminal records, if any, his role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. If convicted, Smith’s sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The attempted armed bank robbery and brandishing a weapon during a crime of violence charges carry serious penalties. Smith’s fate will be decided by the courts, but one thing is clear: the safety of our community is at the forefront of our minds.
As the investigation continues, we urge anyone with information to come forward. The people of Mansfield deserve to know that their banks are safe and secure. We will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.
RELATED: West Tennessee Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Child Pornography
RELATED: Genaro Villa Accused in Ohio’s Massive Drug Smuggling Ring
Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
Violent CrimeViolent CrimeViolent CrimeViolent Crime