UPDATE: A homeless man charged with attempting to rob a bank in Upper Darby has just waived his preliminary hearing, escalating the urgency of this developing case. Michael McGuigan, 49, originally from Philadelphia, was apprehended for the attempted robbery at the Bank of America on October 8, 2023.
The incident unfolded at 10:32 a.m. when police received reports of an attempted robbery. Witnesses described a white man with blond hair, sporting a green shirt and dark green pants, who was still inside the bank when officers arrived. Upper Darby Detective Mazen Malak confirmed that McGuigan was found outside the bank, where he admitted to the attempted robbery.
According to police reports, McGuigan approached a teller and attempted to force his hand through the service window, demanding, “Give me the money.” When questioned if this was a robbery, he candidly replied, “Yes it is.”
Initially scheduled for a preliminary hearing on November 6, 2023, McGuigan, represented by defense attorney Devon Potts, opted for a negotiated waiver on two felony charges of robbery. In a significant twist, the Assistant District Attorney Christopher Downey agreed to withdraw a misdemeanor theft charge, contingent upon an outcome at Common Pleas Court. If the case does not resolve as planned, the theft charge could be reinstated for trial.
Currently, McGuigan remains incarcerated at the county jail in Concord. His next court appearance is a formal arraignment scheduled for December 31, 2023, at the County Courthouse in Media.
This case highlights the ongoing issues surrounding homelessness and crime, drawing attention to the urgent need for social support systems. As developments unfold, the community remains watchful of the implications this case holds for those struggling with homelessness.
Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent situation as it continues to develop.
