Philly Man Indicted In Bryn Mawr Armed Bank Robbery

BRYN MAWR, PA — A man accused of robbing a Bryn Mawr bank in March this year has been charged with federal crimes by indictment, according to authorities.

United States Attorney William M. McSwain announced Thursday that Justin O'Brien, 32, of Philadelphia, was indicted by a federal grand jury with armed bank robbery.

The indictment charges that on March 12 O'Brien stole $1,260 from an employee of Firstrust Bank, located at 725 Lancaster Avenue, Bryn Mawr.

Authorities said the indictment also charges O'Brien knowingly and unlawfully assaulted another person with a pellet gun.

If convicted, O'Brien could see 25 years in prison, up to five years of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment, according to authorities.

"As alleged in the indictment, the defendant’s conduct in this case was reckless and stupid," said U.S. Attorney McSwain. "Not only did O’Brien rob a bank, which is a serious offense, but he threatened bank employees with what looked like a real gun – causing them to fear for their lives. He is now facing serious federal charges and prison time over a relatively small sum of money. To all would-be robbers: let this serve as a deterrent – it’s not worth it."

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Lower Merion Township Police Department, and the Philadelphia Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas M. Zaleski.