PUEBLO – Perry Sean Lohnes, 38, is headed to federal prison for eleven years after pleading guilty to robbing a Pueblo fast-food restaurant while brandishing a handgun. The April 11, 2022, holdup at a local eatery ended with Lohnes threatening a terrified employee before making off with an undisclosed amount of cash. The incident, while thankfully not resulting in physical injury, left a deep mark on the victim and the community.
According to court documents, Lohnes calmly ordered food at the restaurant on East 8th Street, then returned to the counter, brazenly began stuffing cash from the register into his pockets. When confronted by a vigilant employee, Lohnes didn’t hesitate – he pulled a handgun and pointed it directly at her, yelling for her to “get back.” He then completed the theft and fled towards a nearby park. The feds moved quickly, and the Pueblo Police Department and Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office were instrumental in his swift apprehension.
Federal prosecutors were unsparing in their condemnation of Lohnes’ actions. U.S. Attorney Cole Finegan stated bluntly, “We’re taking an aggressive stance against violent criminals in Pueblo. This case exemplifies the strong partnership between law enforcement agencies working to make Pueblo a safer place. This level of violence simply won’t be tolerated.” The FBI Denver field office echoed that sentiment, with Acting Special Agent in Charge Leonard Carollo emphasizing the “unwavering teamwork” that brought Lohnes to justice.
The investigation was a coordinated effort. The FBI Denver division took the lead, working in lockstep with the Pueblo Police Department and Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office to gather crucial evidence. The Violent Crime and Immigration Enforcement Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office then built a rock-solid case, presenting compelling evidence to secure the conviction and the lengthy sentence handed down by Judge Daniel D. Domenico. Sources inside the office say they were pleased with the outcome.
This case is part of the broader Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program, a federal initiative aimed at reducing violent crime through targeted enforcement and community partnerships. PSN focuses on identifying and prosecuting the most dangerous offenders, with the goal of disrupting criminal networks and improving public safety. The feds are doubling down on these programs, and expect more convictions like this in the coming months.
Lohnes’ eleven-year sentence sends a clear message: armed robbery will not be tolerated in Pueblo, or anywhere else in the District of Colorado. Federal prosecutors are committed to pursuing the maximum penalties for violent offenders, and this case is a stark reminder that those who threaten the safety of the community will face serious consequences. Contact Public Affairs Specialist for further inquiries.
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Key Facts
- Category: Violent Crime
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