David Sartin Jr., a convicted bank robber, is accused of robbing two Florida banks while wearing a prosthetic “old man” mask, according to federal authorities. Investigators say the August and September 2026 holdups involved a disguise and Toyota vehicle linked to his earlier Texas robberies. Sartin, who was on supervised release, faces two federal bank robbery charges and remains accused unless proven guilty.

The investigation began after a robbery at Valley Bank in Largo and continued following a similar incident at Truist Bank in St. Petersburg weeks later. Evidence cited by investigators includes surveillance footage, clothing, a bicycle, masks and a vehicle allegedly connected to the crimes.

The alleged Florida robbery pattern

Federal investigators allege that David Sartin Jr., 40, of St. Petersburg, used a prosthetic mask with gray facial hair during two bank robberies in Florida. The first incident occurred on Aug. 24, 2026, at Valley Bank in Largo, and the second occurred on Sept. 15 at a Truist Bank in St. Petersburg. Authorities say the repeated use of an elderly disguise resembled the method attributed to Sartin in earlier Texas bank robberies.

The alleged crimes occurred after Sartin began supervised release in May 2025 following a federal prison sentence. An FBI agent wrote in an affidavit that Sartin used a mask in all of his alleged bank robberies. The authorities’ case relies on similarities in the disguise, transportation and clothing, along with surveillance evidence gathered after the Florida incidents.

The Largo bank holdup

Investigators say the Largo suspect entered Valley Bank wearing a straw hat, sports jacket, gloves and a prosthetic face covering. He allegedly approached a teller, demanded money and warned the employee not to include dye packs. A bank manager told investigators that the robber repeatedly urged the teller to hurry while a silent alarm was activated.

The suspect allegedly left with $2,900 after placing a yellow wet-floor sign between the exit doors. Authorities say he went toward a nearby church, retrieved a bicycle, rode into a nature preserve and later departed in a Toyota FJ Cruiser. Video from nearby businesses, city vehicles, a police cruiser and a school bus was used to trace the vehicle’s movements, according to the affidavit.

“Until we meet again,” the suspect allegedly said after collecting the money, according to the bank manager’s account.

The St. Petersburg robbery

On Sept. 15, investigators say a similarly disguised man entered the Truist Bank in St. Petersburg wearing a flat cap, glasses, a sports jacket and an “old man” mask with a gray mustache and whiskers. He allegedly handed a teller a note demanding cash without dye and escaped with approximately $2,554.

The teller told investigators that the suspect appeared to be wearing a mask and did not move like an elderly man. By that point, the FBI was monitoring Sartin’s home with a surveillance camera. Authorities say video showed the Toyota leaving before the robbery and returning afterward, with a man resembling Sartin unloading a bicycle.

Evidence and arrest

Investigators say they watched Sartin alter the Toyota’s appearance the evening after the second robbery by spray-painting its white roof black. The vehicle was allegedly the same Toyota used in several earlier Texas robberies. Sartin was arrested on Sept. 19 on a warrant alleging a supervised-release violation.

Searches reportedly uncovered a bicycle and clothing similar to items shown in robbery surveillance footage. Agents searching a storage unit found a prosthetic “old man” mask, glasses, clothing and a fake handgun. Investigators also found another mask and a journal in a guest room where Sartin sometimes stayed. The complaint says the journal’s title page described its author as a bank robber.

Earlier convictions and potential penalties

David Sartin Jr. was convicted of attempted bank robbery in Mississippi in 2008 after a failed holdup involving Halloween masks and disguises. In 2018, he received a sentence of 10 years and one month in federal prison in a case involving five Texas bank robberies. Authorities say a similar disguise and the same Toyota were associated with those crimes.

The new federal case charges Sartin with two bank robberies. If convicted, he could receive up to 20 years in prison on each count, according to federal prosecutors in Florida. The charges are allegations, and the government must prove them in court.

Summary

Federal authorities allege that a previously convicted bank robber returned to a familiar method after moving to supervised release. The Florida investigation centers on two bank robberies, a prosthetic elderly disguise, a bicycle and a Toyota associated with earlier crimes. Prosecutors must still establish the allegations in court, where Sartin is entitled to the presumption of innocence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is charged in the case?

David Sartin Jr., 40, of St. Petersburg, is charged with two federal bank robbery counts.

When and where did the alleged robberies occur?

The first allegedly occurred on Aug. 24, 2026, at Valley Bank in Largo. The second allegedly occurred on Sept. 15 at Truist Bank in St. Petersburg, Florida.

What disguise did investigators describe?

Authorities described a prosthetic “old man” mask with gray facial hair, along with glasses, hats, a sports jacket and gloves.

What penalties could Sartin face?

If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison for each of the two robbery counts.

©2025 News Journos. All rights reserved.

A tragic incident unfolded in the Florida Keys when a kayak tour guide, identified as Dylan Lamb, was arrested for the alleged murder of a woman named Nadyne Marie Tillman at a vacation resort. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the 33-year-old suspect killed the 43-year-old victim after they met at the Amoray Dive Resort in Key Largo over the weekend. Tillman’s family reported her missing, leading to an investigation that ultimately revealed her body hidden within Lamb’s hotel room, raising serious questions about safety and accountability in holiday destinations.

Overview of the Incident

The shocking events that led to the arrest of Dylan Lamb began when he allegedly murdered Nadyne Marie Tillman shortly after their initial meeting at the Amoray Dive Resort in Key Largo. Early reports indicate that the two crossed paths on Saturday, with the ensuing tragedy occurring that same weekend.

“It’s just scary, it’s too close to home,”

remarked a family member, expressing the societal alarm surrounding the murder.

Lamb, who worked as a kayak tour guide, and Tillman, a mother of several children, are entwined in a grim circumstance that has left the local community in disbelief. As tourists flock to the Keys for recreation, the gravity of the crime raises concerns for the safety of visitors in such popular destinations. This incident marks yet another cautionary tale that underscores the need for vigilance, especially in vacation hotspots.

Discovery of the Victim

The investigation into Nadyne Marie Tillman‘s disappearance began following reports from her family, who grew increasingly worried after she failed to contact them since Saturday morning. Her body was subsequently discovered on Monday, hidden in a crawl space within the air-conditioning closet of Lamb’s hotel room. The discovery was made by the authorities after cleaning staff reported suspicions regarding bloodied sheets found in waste bags later identified as belonging to Lamb.

Authorities noted that the victim had sustained injuries consistent with those of an assault. Descriptions of the scene suggest a harrowing situation, raising questions about how a body could remain undiscovered in a location shared by other guests. It highlights a critical lapse in communication and security at a facility that accommodates visitors seeking leisurely experiences in the Sunshine State.

Details Surrounding the Arrest

Following the grim discovery of Tillman‘s body, Dylan Lamb was promptly arrested. He faces serious charges, including homicide and kidnapping. According to reports, Lamb’s initial reaction included an unwillingness to vacate his room, which drew further scrutiny from law enforcement. The evidence collected—including blood-stained items—pointed unequivocally towards his involvement in the crime.

Authorities have stated that Lamb’s prior legal issues, which included a conviction for grand theft auto, may provide insight into his character and the potential for violent behavior. His bail is set against the backdrop of this disturbing circumstance, where a life has been extinguished, and an investigation remains ongoing.

Family and Community Reactions

The murder of Nadyne Marie Tillman has sent shockwaves through the local community, provoking fears about safety in areas frequented by tourists. Ka Thigpen, Tillman’s daughter, described the anguish of the family as they try to comprehend the violent end to a beloved family member who was in town for a wedding. Conversations about her mother were commonplace, with locals and family members recalling her fondness for her children and community.

Community sentiment echoed the dangers posed by unforeseen violent crimes, and Thigpen’s remarks underscore how deeply personal tragedies can ripple outwards, affecting and alarming entire communities. As investigations continue, there are calls for more stringent security measures at accommodations to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Legal Proceedings and Next Steps

Dylan Lamb is scheduled to face arraignment in court on April 13, marking the beginning of a legal journey that is likely to attract significant media attention. Both the prosecution and defense will build their respective cases against the backdrop of this heinous crime. The initial evidence suggests a mountain of incriminating materials that could sway public opinion regarding Lamb’s culpability.

As authorities work through the complexities of the case, it remains vital for the community to stay informed while also seeking justice for Tillman. The investigation continues to evolve as more details come to light about both the circumstances leading up to the murder and the actions taken by law enforcement in the days following. The expectation of a fair trail will hopefully provide closure to a grieving family, while also addressing community safety concerns head-on.

Summary

The tragic death of Nadyne Marie Tillman at the hands of Dylan Lamb has spotlighted critical issues of safety and security for tourists in the Florida Keys. As authorities proceed with their investigation, the importance of heightened safety measures in resorts is brought into sharp focus. The community now faces the dual challenge of mourning a life lost while demanding accountability and reform in the handling of safety for visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What happened to Nadyne Marie Tillman?

Nadyne Marie Tillman was allegedly murdered by Dylan Lamb at a resort in Key Largo after the two met over the weekend. Her body was discovered by authorities a couple of days later.

Question: What charges is Dylan Lamb facing?

Dylan Lamb is facing multiple charges including homicide, kidnapping, and the destruction of evidence, among others, related to the murder of Nadyne Marie Tillman.

Question: When is the arraignment for Dylan Lamb?

Dylan Lamb’s arraignment is scheduled for April 13. This will mark his first appearance in court following his arrest.

©2025 News Journos. All rights reserved.