Getaway Driver Sentenced to Federal Prison for Armed Robbery of Bank of America Branch

U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona
June 16, 2009

PHOENIX—Rene Leon, aka Jesus Avila, 21, of Phoenix, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Court Judge Neil V. Wake to 59 months in prison and more than $24,000 in restitution for committing Armed Bank Robbery. Leon served as the driver for the getaway car for armed bank robbers who robbed a Bank of America branch in Phoenix.

On May 20, 2008, Leon drove two others who robbed the Bank of America located at 9325 North 7th Street, Phoenix, Ariz. Leon waited outside while the other two robbed the bank. During the robbery, one person pointed a gun at four bank tellers, while another robber jumped the counter carrying a gun and demanded money from the tellers. The tellers, all in fear for their lives, gave the robber the money. The gunmen took off with a substantial amount of money, but were apprehended quickly. Leon knew that the other two robbers were armed and were going to use handguns to demand money from the Bank of America.

The investigation in this case was conducted by the FBI and the Phoenix Police Department. The prosecution was handled by Jennifer E. Green and Raynette M. Logan, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.