STATE

Man with fake bomb sentenced for Manatee County bank heist

FLORIDA – A Florida man has been sentenced for robbing a Manatee County bank.

Advertisement

U.S. District Judge Mary S. Scriven has sentenced Robert Frascella, 55, of Bradenton, to three years and 10 months in federal prison for bank robbery. The court also ordered Frascella to forfeit $5,000, which is traceable to the proceeds of the offense.

Frascella pleaded guilty on December 12, 2022.

According to court documents, on August 8, 2022, Frascella entered a bank in Parrish and asked to complete a $10,000 wire transfer. When advised that he didn’t have sufficient funds for the transfer, Frascella left the bank.

Advertisement

A short time later, Frascella reportedly returned to the bank, pulled a box from his backpack, and placed it on the lobby floor. Frascella allegedly indicated it was an explosive device and demanded money.

He left the bank with $5,000, the only money the teller had available, prosecutors said.

As a result of the bomb threat, the bank employees and customers were evacuated from the building. Law enforcement and a bomb squad determined that the box did not contain an explosive device.

Advertisement

Frascella was identified and arrested later that day.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation – Sarasota division and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Maria Guzman prosecuted it.

Niceville.com

Recent Posts

Palmetto man allegedly hid income, evaded taxes for over a decade

PALMETTO, Fla. — A Florida man has been arrested and charged with evading tax payments…

22 hours ago

SunPass scam texts hit drivers in Okaloosa, Walton counties

WALTON COUNTY, Fla. — Law enforcement agencies here and across Florida are warning drivers about…

2 days ago

Eglin AFB announces night flight operations March 10-12

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. — Residents near Eglin Air Force Base may hear increased…

2 days ago

Okaloosa STEMM Academy students showcase history at NHD event

VALPARAISO, Fla. — The Okaloosa STEMM Academy recently held a National History Day (NHD) Showcase,…

2 days ago

Niceville voters to decide on two charter amendments in March 11 election

NICEVILLE, Fla. — Residents of the City of Niceville will head to the polls on…

2 days ago

Destin man charged with aggravated battery, accused of using knife

DESTIN, Fla. — A Destin man has been charged with aggravated battery with a deadly…

2 days ago