A San Francisco man, Franklin Fardella, 39, has been found guilty by a jury of attempted second-degree robbery after a botched bank heist. District Attorney Brooke Jenkins praised the quick-witted bank employee and applauded the San Francisco Police Department's rapid response after Mr. Fardella tried to stick up a bank on the 1300 block of Post Street. In a statement obtained by the San Francisco District Attorney's Office, Jenkins said, "This verdict is yet another reminder to those who would come to San Francisco to take advantage of our community, San Franciscans care about their community and are committed to keeping it safe."
During the trial, it was revealed that on June 26, Fardella tried to quickly blend in using a bandana mask, cap, and gloves before slipping the teller a menacing note demanding cash. The teller managed to discreetly trigger a silent alarm, which led to Fardella's plan falling apart when officers from Northern Station nabbed him shortly afterward. The DA's office, credited with the successful prosecution, acknowledged the jury's service, with Assistant District Attorney Robert Miranda noting the importance of San Francisco citizens who "take crimes committed against workers in our community seriously," according to a press released by the District Attorney.
Assistant DA Robert Miranda led the charge in court with help from paralegal Aareona Miles and DA investigator Robert Chan. The case stretched over several days, setting a sturdy example of accountability that the office vows to maintain. While the sentencing for Mr. Fardella is pending due to his failure to show up in court for the verdict, he may face up to three years in state prison. A bench warrant is currently out for his arrest.
