OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) – The man accused in federal court of robbing a bank after using an AI program to help with planning has been sentenced.
23-year-old Deron Lewis-Payne was charged with bank robbery and using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. He was sentenced Aug. 13 to 10 years and a month in prison.
Deron Lewis-Payne(Omaha Police Department)
There is no parole in the federal system. After release, Lewis-Payne will begin a five-year term of supervised release.
On Feb. 10, Lewis-Payne entered the i3Bank in Omaha and pointed a gun at tellers, threatening to kill them, to give him cash and not include any dye packs. He stole about $9,175 before fleeing.
Lewis-Payne was seen on surveillance video clearly showing his face and driving a truck with “distinctive features,” before going on a shopping spree at Westroads Mall for clothes.
“Lewis-Payne admitted to driving the vehicle, but denied involvement with the bank robbery. He consented to a search of his phone. Officers examined the contents and determined Lewis-Payne used ChatGPT to plan the robbery, including advice on law enforcement response times, how to strip and repair a Llama Mini-Max .45 handgun, and for advice on obtaining ammunition as a felon. Additionally, his Google maps history showed he had most recently searched for directions to i3 Bank.”
—
Watch breaking news unfold on our livestream. Download the First Alert 6 streaming app to your TV or find us in your favorite streaming platform.
Copyright 2026 WOWT. All rights reserved.