Infamous Bank Heists – The Loomis Fargo Robbery – Saul Roth

Image Credit: Mussi Katz, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

By Saul Roth

On the evening of October 4, 1997, a daring heist unfolded in Charlotte, North Carolina, that would shock the nation. In a carefully orchestrated operation, David Ghantt, a vault supervisor at Loomis Fargo, along with his accomplices, stole $17.3 million in cash from the company’s regional office vault. This brazen act of theft would become known as the Loomis Fargo Robbery and would go on to inspire the movie “Masterminds.”

The robbery was meticulously planned by Ghantt, who had been working as a Loomis employee for over a decade. He meticulously studied the company’s security procedures and identified weaknesses that he could exploit. Ghantt enlisted the help of his girlfriend, Kelly Campbell, a former Loomis co-worker, as well as his friends, Steve and Michelle Chambers. Together, they devised a plan to disable the vault’s alarm system and bypass the security cameras.

On the night of the robbery, Ghantt arrived at work early and began to implement his plan. He deactivated the alarm and disabled the cameras, allowing his accomplices to enter the vault unnoticed. They filled duffel bags with millions of dollars in cash and loaded them into a waiting van. Once the heist was complete, Ghantt and his accomplices drove away, leaving no trace behind.

The Loomis Fargo Robbery was a major crime that garnered national attention. The FBI immediately launched an investigation, following every lead and piece of evidence they could find. The investigation led them to Ghantt and his accomplices, who were eventually arrested and charged with multiple counts of theft and conspiracy.

The trial of the Loomis Fargo robbers was closely followed by the media and the public. Ghantt and his accomplices were found guilty and sentenced to lengthy prison terms. Ghantt himself was sentenced to 10 years in prison, but he was released early on parole in 2005.

This robbery is a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and deception. It is also a reminder of the importance of strong internal controls and security measures. The robbery had a significant impact on Loomis Fargo, which was forced to review its security procedures and implement stricter measures to prevent future thefts.

The heist has also had a lasting impact on the lives of those involved. Ghantt and his accomplices have all expressed regret for their actions. They have spoken about the mistakes they made and the consequences they have faced. Their stories serve as a warning to others who may be tempted to engage in criminal activity.

The Loomis Fargo Robbery is a complex and fascinating event. It is a story of greed, desperation, and ultimately, regret. It is a reminder that crime does not pay. The robbers may have gotten away with the money for a short time, but they eventually faced the consequences of their actions. Their story is a cautionary tale that should be heeded by all.