Man charged in robbery of Chickasha bank

OKLAHOMA CITY – Dwayne Edward Rasmussen, 65, has been charged with robbing the Community Bank of Oklahoma in Chickasha, announced First Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

According to an affidavit in support of a criminal complaint, a man entered the Chickasha branch of Community Bank of Oklahoma at approximately 9:15 a.m. on April 30, 2019, and told a bank employee: “Give me all your 50s and 100s.”  After the employee complied, he allegedly said: “That’s not enough.  Give me all your money.”

He is alleged to have taken virtually all the money from the three tellers’ drawers, for a total reported loss of $10,474.  The affidavit states that while he did this, he brandished what appeared to be a pistol with a green grip.  When he entered the bank, the affidavit states, he placed a large sponge at the base of the inside door of the “mantrap” at the bank’s entrance so the door would not close.

Based on video surveillance from the bank and a church across the street, eyewitness accounts, and interviews of his acquaintances, FBI agents determined Rasmussen was the primary suspect.  He was arrested on May 6 in downtown Oklahoma City.

Rasmussen made his initial appearance during the afternoon of May 6 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Gary M. Purcell.  A preliminary and detention hearing will take place before Judge Purcell on May 9.

If found guilty of bank robbery, Rasmussen faces a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine of $250,000, and mandatory restitution.

This case is a result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Division and the Chickasha Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Wilson McGarry and Mary E. Walters are prosecuting the case.

The public is reminded that this charge is merely an allegation and that Rasmussen is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.  Reference is made to public filings for more information.