A New York man has been indicted for a series of bank robberies and attempted robberies at six Manhattan banks over a three-month period in 2025, federal authorities announced. Cornell Neilly, 34, is accused of robbing or attempting to rob banks in neighborhoods including Chelsea, the West Village, and an area just north of Madison Square Park between August and October.
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York Jay Clayton stated, “As alleged, Cornell Neilly robbed or attempted to rob six banks in multiple neighborhoods across Manhattan. Hardworking New Yorkers, including the tellers and customers at these six banks, deserve to go to work without worrying that they will become victim to this type of brazen conduct. And New York families should not have to fear for their safety on New York streets. The women and men of this Office will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to keep our communities safe.”
FBI Acting Assistant Director in Charge Vanessa Tibbits said, “Cornell Neilly is charged with attempting to rob six banks across Manhattan by demanding cash from their tellers. This alleged spree is a bank employee’s worst nightmare. Preying on fear to satiate one’s own greed will not be tolerated. Along with our law enforcement partners, the FBI remains steadfast in disrupting any serial criminal targeting our city’s financial institutions.”
According to statements made in court proceedings and the indictment, Neilly allegedly passed notes demanding specific amounts of money from bank tellers during each incident. In three cases where tellers complied with his demands, he obtained thousands of dollars.
Neilly faces three counts each of bank robbery and attempted bank robbery. Each count carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison if convicted. However, sentencing decisions will be determined by the judge.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon D. Harper from the Violent Organizations & Crime Unit. Authorities emphasized that all charges are allegations and that Neilly is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Jay Clayton praised both the FBI and the New York City Police Department for their investigative efforts leading up to the indictment.
