A Kings Park resident has been charged in connection with two alleged robberies at Flagstar Bank branches in Suffolk County, authorities said. Brian Blackford, 51, is accused of taking more than $4,000 from the banks, and authorities reported that cocaine was recovered at the time of his arrest, according to the Suffolk County Government.
District Attorney Tierney stated that bank robberies can endanger employees, customers, and law enforcement personnel. Suffolk County Police arrested Blackford shortly after the second robbery. He was arraigned before Acting Supreme Court Justice Philip Goglas and faces multiple charges, including two counts of third-degree robbery and one count of third-degree grand larceny.
The indictment stems from incidents on December 8 and December 10, when Blackford is accused of entering the banks, presenting a note to tellers, and leaving with cash. Authorities said the first incident occurred at a West Babylon branch, where approximately $1,400 was taken. While that investigation was ongoing, police allege Blackford committed a second robbery at a Flagstar Bank in Deer Park, during which he reportedly gestured toward his waist to suggest he had a weapon.
After the arrest in Copiague, detectives recovered a paper note from Blackford demanding $10,000 in cash, along with a quantity of powder cocaine and more than $2,700 in cash. The case includes charges of Criminal Possession in the Fifth Degree and Resisting Arrest and is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Hector Laserna of the Narcotics Bureau. Blackford is represented by Chris Cassar, Esq., and is scheduled to return to court on January 27, 2026. If convicted, Blackford faces a potential sentence of 3.5 to 7 years in prison on each top count.
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