Federal Charges Filed In City Ave Pharmacy Armed Robbery

PHILADELPHIA — A Montgomery County man has been hit with federal robbery, firearm, and related charges in connection with the armed robbery of a City Avenue pharmacy in November 2021.

Federal authorities said Patrick Harrison, 39, of Pottstown, is charged with Hobbs Act robbery; carrying, using, and brandishing a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence; and being felon in possession of a firearm.

Authorities allege Harrison went into the Rite-Aid at 5040 City Avenue in West Philadelphia back in November 2021.

He pulled out a loaded Smith and Wesson 9 mm pistol and demanded money from employees, authorities said.

After getting about $600, Harrison left the store, according to authorities.

"As alleged, this defendant waved a loaded gun in the faces of Rite-Aid employees simply doing their jobs and got away with $600," United States Attorney Jennifer Arbittier Williams said. "Law enforcement experts have said that the majority of violent crimes committed in and around Philadelphia are perpetrated by a small number of brazen criminals. The charges in this Indictment demonstrate that assertion and are exactly why our All Hands On Deck initiative is committed to investigating and prosecuting those violent, repeat offenders."

If convicted, Harrison faces a maximum possible sentence of life imprisonment, five years of supervised release, and a $750,000 fine, and a $300 special assessment.