Marcus Clayton Harris, Armed Robbery and Possession/Brandishing of a Firearm, Oklahoma 2023

OKLAHOMA CITY – Marcus Clayton Harris, 40, of Oklahoma City, is headed to federal prison for two decades after being sentenced for a brazen string of armed robberies that terrorized local businesses last summer. Harris was handed the 20-year sentence by U.S. District Judge Patrick R. Wyrick on November 2nd, bringing an end to a case that exposed a pattern of escalating violence.

The crime spree began in June 2022, with Harris hitting a total of nine businesses across Oklahoma City. Federal prosecutors detailed how Harris specifically targeted establishments, isolating employees with a firearm and issuing direct threats to prevent anyone from contacting the police. The investigation, led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Oklahoma City Police Department, quickly identified Harris through repeated behavioral patterns at each crime scene.

The most alarming incident occurred on July 7, 2022, at a Cricket Wireless store. According to court documents, Harris not only brandished a firearm but also discharged it during the robbery. Just a day prior, on July 3rd, Harris robbed a Family Dollar, holding an employee at gunpoint and issuing the same chilling order: don’t call the cops. Harris was apprehended on July 8th, immediately after attempting or completing two more armed robberies.

Harris pleaded guilty in January to a four-count superseding information, admitting his involvement in the Family Dollar and Cricket Wireless robberies, and specifically confessing to discharging his firearm at the Cricket Wireless location. The charges included interference with commerce by robbery and possession/brandishing of a firearm during the commission of a crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan J. West led the prosecution, successfully arguing for a substantial sentence.

Judge Wyrick didn’t mince words during sentencing, citing the “serious and extensive conduct” exhibited by Harris. The judge highlighted the nine robberies where Harris wielded a weapon, the multiple instances of gunfire, and the constant threats leveled against victims. Adding to the severity, Harris already had a prior conviction for attempted robbery in Oklahoma County District Court – a fact that clearly didn’t deter him.

“This sentence sends a clear message,” stated U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. “Those who prey on businesses and terrorize our communities with firearms will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.” The ATF and Oklahoma City PD are continuing to investigate any potential connections to other unsolved robberies in the area, looking to build on this conviction and further dismantle criminal activity.

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