Former Penn State student sentenced to 13 years in bank robberies

A former Penn State University student was sentenced this morning for a 2008 bank robbery spree. Rasheid Robinson along with two others, in all, robbed 17 banks in two states.

A former Penn State University student was sentenced this morning for a 2008 bank robbery spree.

Rasheid Robinson along with two others, in all, robbed 17 banks in several states.

WHYY’s Meggan Kole was at his sentencing hearing.

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The 22 year doesn’t fit the mold of a typical bank robber.  U.S. District Judge Eduardo Robreno said Robinson was a gifted athlete, intelligent, and until this, law abiding.  But in the end, Robinson who was sat hunched over and sobbing was sentenced to 13 years in prison and will be required to pay 67 thousand dollars in restitution.

Robinson was allowed to make a statement. He told the court, he wants a second chance to be a role model for his little brother to show him the man he used to be.

High school friends of Robinson say he was a bright kid. Keith Gastearl said he couldn’t imagine how his friend got into this much trouble.

Gastearl: With the exception of recent events, Rasheid has always been a good person. And there is no was, He is a good person. He just happen to get caught up in his decisions and they pretty much altered the way he his right now.

The two other men involved in the robberies will be sentenced  later this year.