Phillip Leo Nietz, Bank Robbery, Minnesota 2012

A brazen bank robber has been brought to justice in Minneapolis. Phillip Leo Nietz, 51, was sentenced to 151 months in prison for robbing the TCF Bank on West Lake Street in Minneapolis.

According to court documents, on August 22, 2012, Nietz walked into the West Lake Street branch of TCF Bank and handed a teller a note demanding money. He took approximately $3,794 and left the premises on foot.

Nietz’s crimes didn’t stop there. In his plea agreement, he admitted to robbing three other banks in the same manner: U.S. Bank in Roseville on August 14, 2012, where he stole $1,047; Wells Fargo in St. Paul on August 28, 2012, where he stole $7,389; and U.S. Bank in St. Paul on September 13, 2012, where he stole $1,045.

The investigation into Nietz’s crimes was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Calhoun-Lopez prosecuted the case.

Nietz was indicted on October 10, 2012, and pleaded guilty on January 11, 2013. In addition to his prison sentence, he was ordered to pay restitution to the bank he robbed.

Despite the severity of his crimes, Nietz’s sentencing was a relatively swift one. His guilty plea and cooperation with authorities likely contributed to the relatively short time it took for him to be sentenced.

As the people of Minneapolis continue to rebuild and recover, it’s a relief to know that justice has been served. The community can rest a little easier knowing that Phillip Leo Nietz will be behind bars for a long time to come.

MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS

Violent Crime

David Lipinski, Attempted Robbery, Pennsylvania 2016

Mar 1, 2018

Violent Crime

Wilkinsons Violent Crime Spree, Maryland 1955

Mar 1, 1976

Violent Crime

Carol John, False Passport Application and Reentry of Removed Alien, Louisiana 2023

Dec 7, 2016

Violent Crime

Couy Griffin, Breaching the U.S. Capitol, District of Columbia 2021

Jan 17, 2021