Mark Laughner, 38, of Pittsburgh, admitted on Wednesday to robbing a bank and attempting to evade law enforcement, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania.
Laughner pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Cathy Bissoon for his role in the robbery of a Reserve Township bank on May 16, 2024. Wearing a baseball cap and neck gaiter to conceal his identity, Laughner threatened a bank teller, demanding large bills and threatening to shoot her if she didn’t comply. He made off with $1,370 before fleeing the scene.
The authorities quickly identified Laughner through surveillance footage and witness interviews. Four days later, on May 20, 2024, Allegheny County Police detectives tried to arrest Laughner outside a fire station. He initially attempted to flee by jumping into the driver’s seat of a vehicle, reversing at high speed, and narrowly avoiding hitting two detectives.
Ignoring commands from the police, Laughner abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot, eventually hiding in thick brush. An ACPD K-9 unit later located him, leading to his arrest.
Laughner faces up to 20 years in federal prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Sentencing has been scheduled for July 22, 2024.
The case highlights the continued commitment of law enforcement in pursuing criminals involved in violent crimes and fugitive evasion, ensuring they are held accountable for their actions.
