Swansea man accused of robbing a credit union

EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. - A man appeared in federal court Wednesday to face a federal charge for allegedly robbing a credit union in Swansea.

Deondre E. Jones, 55, is facing one count of bank robbery.

"Thanks to a strong, coordinated response by law enforcement, this defendant's attempt to rob the credit union ended almost as quickly as it began," said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. "Anyone who robs or attempts to rob a bank will face certain justice in a federal prison."

According to the complaint, Jones is accused of robbing a credit union on North Illinois Street in Swansea around 2:14 p.m. on March 6. He allegedly approached the teller, demanded cash and said he had a firearm. After receiving the cash, Jones took off from the credit union on foot. Minutes later around 2:22 p.m., officers with the Swansea Police Department took Jones into custody.

"The rapid response by Swansea Police Officers was critical in neutralizing this bank robbery," said FBI Springfield Acting Special Agent in Charge, Ruben Marchand-Morales. "The quick action by the Officers paved the way for a successful arrest, highlighting how collaboration between local and federal partners ensures we use every available resource to protect our community."

A complaint is merely an allegation. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The FBI Springfield Field Office is being jointly investigated with support from the Swansea Police Department, Fairview Heights Police Department, Belleville Police Department, and Illinois State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim Arshi is prosecuting the case.