A man from Tulsa, identified as Markell Demond Stanley, has been sentenced to 120 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for committing a bank robbery and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson and given by U.S. District Judge Robert L. Hinkle.
In April 2024, a bank in Tulsa triggered a "hold up" alarm, leading local police officers to the scene. Witnesses provided a description of the armed suspect, who was later identified as Stanley. Surveillance footage captured Stanley assessing the area before the robbery, escaping in a vehicle afterward. Investigation using FLOCK surveillance cameras led the police to the vehicle's owner, a rideshare driver, who confirmed giving Stanley a ride for a cash tip after the incident.
Stanley was later apprehended and confessed to the crime, citing financial difficulties. He mentioned his willingness to apologize to the bank employee. During a search of his residence, law enforcement found the firearm and clothing used in the robbery.
The plea agreement confirms Stanley's awareness of his status as a felon prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition. He will be held pending his transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.
The case was investigated by the FBI and the Tulsa Police Department, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen Flynn and John Brasher. It forms part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a collaboration among law enforcement and communities aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence.
Project Safe Neighborhoods was strengthened on May 26, 2021, incorporating new principles to bolster community trust, support violence prevention, set strategic enforcement priorities, and measure outcomes. More information about the project can be found at Justice.gov/PSN.