North Bergen, New Jersey Man Charged with Bank Robbery

NEWARK, NJ—Augusto G. Perez was arrested today for allegedly robbing a bank in February 2011, United States Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced.

Perez, 60, of North Bergen, New Jersey, is charged by complaint with one count of bank robbery and made his initial appearance today before United States Magistrate Judge Patty Shwartz.

According to the criminal complaint filed in Newark federal court on March 17, 2011:

On February 28, 2011, Perez entered a TD Bank in Weehawken, New Jersey, pointed a handgun at a bank teller, and told her to give him all the money from the top and bottom teller drawers. Perez then pointed the handgun at a second bank teller and a customer who was in the process of making a deposit, and ordered both of them to give him money as well. Perez left the bank with approximately $10,000.

The bank robbery charge carries a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine or twice the gain or loss from the offense.

Fishman credited special agents with the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael B. Ward in Newark, with the investigation leading to today’s sentence.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Fabiana Pierre-Louis of the Criminal Division in Newark.

The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Anyone who has information which may be relevant to this case is encouraged to contact the Newark Division of the FBI at 973-792-3000.

Defense counsel: Candace Hom, Esq.