A Macon resident, Felix Cordes, has admitted to robbing two credit unions and attempting a third robbery in 2022. Cordes, aged 57, pleaded guilty to bank robbery charges before U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on January 2. He could face up to 25 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. The court has yet to set a sentencing date.
U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary commented on the impact of Cordes' actions: "Bank tellers were terrified when Felix Cordes walked into their workplace and threatened them with a firearm... his final act thwarted by brave credit union employees who saw him coming with a gun and quickly locked down the bank."
Robert Gibbs from FBI Atlanta's Macon office expressed relief that no one was physically harmed during the incidents: "We are extremely grateful that no one was physically hurt or killed during these violent robberies, and thankful that Cordes is off our streets and facing justice in our federal court system."
Bibb County Sheriff David Davis highlighted the potential danger posed by Cordes: "Felix Cordes was a ruthless and relentless criminal who possibly could have killed innocent bank employees had he not been stopped by the diligent work of investigators."
Court documents reveal that on April 2, 2022, Cordes robbed MidSouth Community Federal Credit Union in Macon while disguised in overalls, a bandana, and sunglasses. He brandished a handgun at bank tellers and took money from two drawers. On May 2, with an accomplice's help, he robbed Central Georgia Regional Credit Union using similar tactics. His third attempt on May 24 at another MidSouth Community Federal Credit Union location failed as staff managed to lock down the bank.
The investigation led law enforcement to execute a search warrant at a residence linked to Cordes on April 6, where they found items connecting him to the robberies. In total, he stole $38,274 from the two credit unions.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joy Odom for the Government.