A federal judge has sentenced 52-year-old George Landy to 22 years in federal prison for what prosecutors describe as a violent eight-day crime spree in October 2022 that involved armed robberies, a gunpoint abduction and multiple firearms offenses. The sentence, handed down on April 8, 2026, also includes three years of supervised release once Landy leaves prison.
How the crimes unfolded
Prosecutors say the chaos started on Oct. 16, 2022, when Landy robbed a Family Dollar at gunpoint. A week later, on Oct. 23, he tried to rob a McDonald’s and fired shots during the attempt, raising the stakes and public alarm. The spree reached its most terrifying point on Oct. 24 outside a Dollar Tree in Lawrence.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Landy forced a woman into her car at gunpoint, then drove her to banks and made her withdraw $500. He eventually left her at the IndyGo Transit Center and took off in her vehicle.
Arrest and charges
The stolen vehicle turned up near Landy’s home the next day. When officers moved in, authorities say he ran and tossed a handgun, which was later recovered. WRTV reports that a federal grand jury subsequently indicted Landy on charges that included carjacking, interference with commerce by robbery and two counts of carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
Sentence and reaction
A government news release labeled the string of offenses “deeply disturbing,” and prosecutors told the court the case showed a blatant disregard for public safety, according to WTHR. The station reports that Landy pleaded guilty to the federal counts before the judge imposed the 22-year prison term and three years of supervised release.
What it means
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana led the prosecution, with investigations supported by the ATF, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and Lawrence Police Department, officials said. The U.S. Department of Justice notes that carjacking and Hobbs Act robbery charges can add up to decades behind bars when combined with firearm offenses.
Authorities say the sentence effectively closes a harrowing chapter for store workers and the carjacking victim, who were left badly shaken by the ordeal. Investigators are still working through the court file as the judge finalizes restitution and related orders in the coming weeks.
