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Authorities say a security guard working for Chase Bank in Palmdale played a key role in a $200,000 armed heist involving two armed assailants. The robbery, initially appearing as a random violent crime, is now believed to be an orchestrated inside job, according to federal investigators.
Details of the Robbery and Suspected Planning
In early February, a couple arrived at the Chase Bank in Palmdale to withdraw $200,000. While they were crossing the parking lot, two men confronted them at gunpoint and stole the cash before fleeing. After investigating, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) identified the heist as pre-planned, implicating three Antelope Valley residents.
The ATF named the suspects as Tyjana Grayes, 24, of Palmdale, and two Lancaster residents, Jerry “Poppa” Wimbley Jr., 21, and Roman “Siete” Isaiah Smith, 24. Grayes, a security guard employed by a private contractor for Chase, allegedly shared details about the planned withdrawal with her accomplices.
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Execution of the Heist and Money Laundering
According to a federal grand jury indictment, Grayes first learned about the couple’s scheduled withdrawal after they deposited a check for $315,301. Grayes allegedly relayed this information to Wimbley and Smith, who then waited in the bank parking lot for the couple on February 9. As the couple left with the cash, Wimbley and Smith, armed with semiautomatic handguns, threatened the victims before seizing the money.
Authorities further allege that Wimbley laundered the stolen funds at the Commerce Casino and Hotel. From February 10 to March 8, he reportedly purchased $34,500 in gambling chips but cashed out a total of $168,700, occasionally cashing out without buying chips.
Security Guard Armed Heist Charges and Potential Sentences
Grayes, Wimbley, and Smith face federal charges, including conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery, interference with commerce by robbery, and firearm use during a crime of violence. Wimbley faces additional charges for money laundering and firearm possession, while Smith is also facing unrelated murder charges.
If convicted, each suspect could receive a maximum life sentence in federal prison.
