In a recent court ruling, two Indianapolis men received substantial prison sentences for a series of armed robberies across Marion County. The individuals, Donta Allen, 28, and Lance McGee, 33, were implicated in an 11-stop crime spree that spanned from late March to early April of last year.
According to a statement released by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Indiana, Allen was sentenced to 38 years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $12,790.91 in restitution. His charges included interference with commerce by robbery and, brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. McGee, serving as the getaway driver during the heists, received a sentence of 19.5 years in prison and the same amount in restitution.
The criminal acts perpetrated by Allen and McGee involved a stolen Smith & Wesson 9mm pistol, which McGee had unlawfully taken while employed at a moving company. In executing their plan, Allen covered his tattoos with makeup and wore a ski mask while McGee used a Chevy Malibu to aid their escape.
United States Attorney Tom Wheeler emphasized the severity of the duo's actions, "This case sends a clear message that repeat violent offenders who terrorize our communities will face the full force of federal justice," as he was quoted in the official press release. Both men had previous convictions, including felony possession of a narcotic drug and aggravated possession for McGee, and robbery, armed robbery, and possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon for Allen. Timothy J. O’Malley, of the FBI Indianapolis Field Office, echoed Wheeler's sentiments, he said, "Our communities deserve to feel safe from violent criminals who think nothing of pointing a gun at innocent people."
The investigation saw contributions from the FBI, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD), and Speedway Police Department, culminating in the sentences handed down by U.S. District Court Judge Sarah Evans Barker. The collaboration showcases the rigid stance law enforcement and the judicial system take against those committing armed robbery and violence in the community.
