Iowa Man Receives 7 Years in Federal Prison for Armed Robbery of NJ Bank

Jose Luis Martinez is sentenced in Newark for the 2017 armed robbery of a Secaucus bank.

NEWARK, N.J. – In a decisive ruling by the Newark federal court, Jose Luis Martinez, a 33-year-old Iowa man, has been sentenced to 94 months in prison following his guilty plea for the 2017 armed robbery of a Secaucus bank, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced January 18, 2024. This sentence marks a significant conclusion to a case that has spanned over half a decade.

Martinez, who had previously admitted to the charges in front of U.S. District Judge John M. Vazquez, faced a two-count indictment for armed bank robbery and brandishing a firearm during the criminal act. Thursday, January 18, 2024, U.S. District Judge William J. Martini imposed the sentence, highlighting the severity of Martinez's actions.

The court documents and statements revealed that on January 5, 2017, Martinez executed a daring robbery at a Secaucus bank. Brandishing a handgun, he threatened a bank employee, warning of potential harm to her and other patrons if his demands for cash were not met. After obtaining the money, Martinez fled the scene, initiating a multi-state investigation.

Judge Martini's sentence extends beyond prison time, including three years of supervised release and an order for Martinez to pay $31,000 in restitution. This comprehensive sentencing reflects the gravity of the crime and its impact on the community.

The successful resolution of this case is attributed to the coordinated efforts of the FBI, led by Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy, Newark. The collaborative work involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including the FBI's White Plains, New York Office; the New York City Police Department; the Greenwich, Connecticut, Police Department; and the Port Chester, New York, Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Garrett Schuman of the Criminal Division in Newark represented the government in this pivotal case. This sentencing not only brings closure to the victims but also serves as a testament to the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration in upholding justice.