Fernandina Beach Police Department Press Release
On March 4, 2013 the First Coast Community Bank was robbed by a lone male suspect. A joint investigation by members of the Fernandina Beach Police Department and the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office ensued and less than thirty minutes after the robbery the suspects were located.
As a result of the joint investigative effort, Chance Tyler Bennett was found hiding in the back of a mini-van driven by his female accomplice, Mandy Elizabeth Hagen. Both were arrested on charges of Armed Bank Robbery.
Since the initial arrest, Fernandina Beach detectives and the State Attorney’s Office have been working to coordinate a strong case to present in court.
With evidence mounting against the suspects, both pled guilty to their charges last week. Bennett pled guilty to Armed Robbery and Hagen pled guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Armed Robbery. Hagen pled to a seven year prison sentence and Bennett was sentenced to eight years.
November 25, 2013 2:00 p.m.
It’s wonderful when the City and County cooperate for the good of us all. Congratulations to the Sheriff’s Office and the City Police!
Yes, no escape from the Dynamic Duo of the FBPD and the NCSO! Congrats to all those involved in such a swift resolution.
I can’t believe the very light sentences! So basically these two losers will be back out on the streets in 3 years or so because all of these prison sentences get reduced. Both of them have past histories of stealing, etc. Great, so basically it’s a slap on the wrist and they will be back out doing this stuff again.
To the person who thinks 8 years in the Florida State Prison system is a “light” sentence. Florida requires individuals to serve 85% of their sentences. Thus, the young man will not be allowed have any level of personal contact with his friends or family for almost 7 years of his life. Can you imagine being removed from those you love for 7 years? I agree punishment is appropriate, but have you considered any other factors? What caused the commission of the crime? Did the individual have any mental health or drug problems? Have they ever committed a crime before? All of those are important factors which play into the determination of what is an appropriate sentence. Additionally, no violence was involved in the commission of this crime and nobody was hurt. Sometimes “tough on crime” approaches are absolutely necessary. Other times it is important to gather all of the facts before such a knee jerk response.