Psych Test Ordered For Gun-Toting Granny

advertisement

But a former bank employee, who happened to be nearby, spotted the suspect and notified police who were already on their way, Popovich said. A low speed pursuit ensured, ending when a tow truck driver, who was aware of the heist, blocked her escape, the chief said.

Police recovered the loot and the handgun. Devine was being held Tuesday at the Allegheny County Jail in lieu of $100,000 bail. A judge on Monday ordered her to undergo a psychiatric evaluation.

Authorities say they are not certain what will happen next to the granny bandit.

"I've been contacted by the US attorney asking me if I want them to take the case," Popovich said. "But at this point in time I think we're just going to handle it."

That does not mean, however, that the aged suspect can expect particularly lenient treatment.

"Here's the bottom line, she went in there and put two people in fear for their lives, she jeopardized my officers as far as pursuing her and other people, " Popovich said. "Do I feel sorry for her? Yes I do. Unfortunately, if she's convicted of armed robbery, it is a mandatory five years no matter what."

"Basically, I hate to say it, if she got convicted, it might be a death sentence for her. I really don't want to see that happen to her, but right now it's out of my hands," the chief said.

 

Contact Seamus McGraw at seamusm@ptd.net

First Page

For more daily crime news