Pittsburgh Man Admits Robbing Local Banks

PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to bank robbery charges, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.

Calvin Leavy, 68, pleaded guilty to three counts before Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on Jan. 31, 2022, Leavy entered the First National Bank located at 3721 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, approached the bank employee and attempted to rob the bank, requesting the bank employee provide him with all of the money. Leavy left the bank, however, without receiving any money. Approximately 12 minutes later, Leavy entered the PNC Bank located at 4600 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, wearing the exact same clothing and matching the description of the individual that had attempted to rob the First National Bank. Leavy informed the bank employee, “I have a gun. Give me the money.” Leavy took approximately $1,338 from the PNC.

Then, on Feb. 8, 2022, Leavy entered the First National Bank, located at 307 4th Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, approached the bank employee and stated he had a gun and demanded money. Leavy took approximately $1,238 from the First National Bank.
With the assistance of surveillance footage, investigators determined that Leavy used a Port Authority bus to travel to and from each of the bank robberies and used his bus card to pay for the fare. After tracking Leavy’s movements, investigators located Leavy, wearing the same clothing that he wore for the robbery, and arrested him.

Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for May 16, 2023, at 11:00 AM. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, Calvin Leavy remains in custody.

Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Calvin Leavy.