By: Richard L. Smith
A Monmouth County man accused of committing an armed bank robbery made his initial appearance in federal court today, according to a statement released by the U.S. Department of Justice.
Mr. Jeffrey L. Kniffin, 50, of Wall Township, is charged with one count of armed bank robbery and has been detained pending a detention hearing scheduled for November 25, 2024.
According to court documents and statements presented in court, the alleged robbery occurred on October 23, 2024.
Kniffin entered a bank in Wall Township, demanded money from a teller, and displayed a firearm. Witnesses reported that Kniffin repeatedly warned the teller and other employees, saying, "Don't do anything stupid."
He then took more than $17,000 in cash by force and intimidation before fleeing the scene.
Law enforcement officers apprehended Kniffin just minutes after the robbery. A loaded firearm and the stolen cash were recovered from his possession and the surrounding area at the time of his arrest.
If convicted, Kniffin faces a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for the charge of armed bank robbery.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details may emerge as the case progresses.