SAN DIEGO–A local man pleaded guilty in federal court Thursday to a bank robbery at the Navy Federal Credit Union in San Diego.
Rafeek Omar Karamat, 35, admitted that on September 30 at approximately 9:59 a.m., he entered the credit union wearing a face covering and approached a teller. Karamat walked around the corner of the teller’s desk, brandished a knife, and demanded, “give me money,” and “give me what I came for.” The teller complied and provided Karamat with $2,500 in cash. Karamat then ran to a white Ford Ranger and sped away.
Karamat was arrested by La Mesa Police officers shortly after fleeing the Navy Federal Credit Union. He had the stolen money and a knife at the time of his arrest.
“Bank robberies are a terrifying experience for both customers and the tellers,” said U.S. Attorney Robert Brewer. “Thanks to the swift action of federal and local law enforcement agencies in this matter, this defendant was quickly apprehended and justice has been achieved.” Brewer praised prosecutor Megan Rossi and the FBI for excellent work on this case.
Karamat is scheduled to be sentenced on February 22.