A Swansea man appeared in federal court on March 12 to face a charge of bank robbery after allegedly robbing a credit union in Swansea.
Deondre E. Jones, 55, has been charged with one count of bank robbery. U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft said, “Thanks to a strong, coordinated response by law enforcement, this defendant’s attempt to rob the credit union ended almost as quickly as it began. Anyone who robs or attempts to rob a bank will face certain justice in a federal prison.”
According to the complaint, Jones is accused of entering a credit union on North Illinois Street in Swansea at about 2:14 p.m. on March 6. He allegedly approached the teller, demanded cash, and claimed he had a firearm. After receiving money from the teller, Jones reportedly fled the scene on foot but was apprehended by officers from the Swansea Police Department just minutes later at around 2:22 p.m.
FBI Springfield Acting Special Agent in Charge Ruben Marchand-Morales said, “The rapid response by Swansea Police Officers was critical in neutralizing this bank robbery. The quick action by the Officers paved the way for a successful arrest, highlighting how collaboration between local and federal partners ensures we use every available resource to protect our community.”
Authorities remind that a complaint is merely an allegation and that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
The investigation is being conducted jointly by the FBI Springfield Field Office with support from several local agencies including the Swansea Police Department, Fairview Heights Police Department, Belleville Police Department, and Illinois State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim Arshi is prosecuting the case.
