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Bank Robber on the Run: Marcus J. Thornton Faces 20 Years in Prison
A brazen bandit struck at the U.S. Bank in O’Fallon, Illinois, on February 9, 2017, leaving a trail of fear and financial losses in his wake. Marcus J. Thornton, a 36-year-old man from Edwardsville, Illinois, has been charged with Bank Robbery in connection with the heist.
According to prosecutors, Thornton entered the bank at 400 South Lincoln Avenue at approximately 1:11 p.m., wearing a white construction dust mask and brandishing a silver and black semi-automatic handgun. He demanded money from the tellers, who handed over U.S. currency, which Thornton stuffed into a white plastic bag. Before making his escape, Thornton allegedly inserted a telescopic magnet into the bag to detect a tracking device. He was seen fleeing the scene in a dark blue Sport Utility Vehicle.
Law enforcement officers reviewed U.S. Bank surveillance video and were able to identify Thornton, who was subsequently arrested. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is leading the investigation, with Assistant United States Attorney Daniel T. Kapsak handling the prosecution.
A complaint is a formal charge against a defendant that outlines the essential facts constituting the offense. Under the law, a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury.
Thornton faces up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and not more than 3 years supervised release after his term of imprisonment, if convicted. His first appearance in United States District Court was on February 21, 2017.
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement. The O’Fallon community can rest easier knowing that justice is being served, and the perpetrator is facing the consequences of his actions.
As the investigation continues, the Grimy Times will provide updates on this developing story. Stay tuned for more information on this and other crime stories affecting our community.
Key Facts
- State: Illinois
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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