Apopka Man Sentenced To 30 Years In Prison For Armed Bank Robbery

Orlando, FL – Senior United States District Judge Gregory A. Presnell yesterday sentenced Dale Matthews Clar (47, Apopka) to 30 years and one month in federal prison for two counts of bank robbery with assault, and two counts of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.  The court also ordered Clar to serve a two-year term of supervision, following his prison sentence, and to forfeit a 9mm Glock pistol and 17 rounds of ammunition, which were used in the commission of the crimes.

A federal jury found Clar guilty on February 6, 2014.

According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, on January 4, 2013, April 3, 2013, and September 6, 2013, Clar robbed the Chase Bank in Apopka, at gunpoint.  He stole a total of approximately $18,000 in the three robberies.  During each robbery, Clar rushed into the bank wearing a full ski mask.  He pointed his gun at bank employees and customers, demanding cash from the tellers.  When Clar fled the bank, he covered his license plate to avoid being caught. 

On September 6, 2013, Clar covered his license plate with a temporary registration tag associated with his car.  He also attempted to further avoid suspicion by placing a Domino’s Pizza delivery sign on the top of his car.  Police located Clar and arrested him near his home.  A subsequent search of Clar’s car revealed Clar’s disguise, a Glock 9mm handgun, and thousands of dollars in cash that he had just stolen from the bank.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Apopka Police Department.  It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph M. Schuster.