Dayton, Ohio – A Dayton man accused of carrying out a daring daytime bank robbery has now been formally indicted by a federal grand jury, escalating a case that unfolded quickly and ended with his arrest just hours after the crime.
John Donald Butler, 62, was initially charged through a federal criminal complaint on April 1. Authorities have now confirmed that a grand jury has returned an indictment, pushing the case forward in federal court. Butler has remained in custody since his arrest and faces serious consequences tied to both the recent robbery and his lengthy criminal history.
Robbery carried out in broad daylight
According to charging documents, the incident occurred on March 30 at around 2:45 p.m. at a Key Bank on Miamisburg Centerville Road in Dayton. Investigators say Butler entered the bank dressed as a construction worker, a disguise that may have helped him avoid drawing immediate suspicion.
Once inside, Butler allegedly approached a bank teller and handed over a note. The message was clear and threatening, instructing the employee to hand over money from the top drawer and warning against including any dye packs. The demand created a tense situation inside the bank, and the teller complied.
Authorities say Butler left with more than $9,000 in cash before quickly exiting the scene. Despite the disguise, one key detail stood out — Butler did not wear any face covering, allowing security cameras to capture clear images of him during the robbery.
Swift investigation leads to arrest
Law enforcement moved quickly after the robbery. Officials reviewed surveillance footage and identified Butler. At the same time, license plate reader technology helped track his movements before and after the incident.
Within about three hours, officers located Butler and carried out a traffic stop, leading to his arrest without incident. During the search, authorities recovered cash, drugs, and the note used in the robbery, strengthening the case against him.
The rapid arrest highlights coordination between local and federal agencies, along with the use of modern technology that allows officers to track suspects in near real time.
Long criminal history adds weight to charges
Butler’s past makes the case even more notable. Officials say he has prior convictions for more than 20 bank robberies in earlier federal cases in Florida and Georgia. That history now looms over the current charges and could significantly impact future court proceedings.
Bank robbery is a federal offense punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Given Butler’s previous convictions, the potential penalties could be substantial.
United States Attorney Dominick S. Gerace II announced the charges alongside Jason Cromartie, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Cincinnati Division, and Moraine Police Chief Craig Richardson. Assistant United States Attorney Elizabeth L. McCormick is prosecuting the case.
As the case moves forward, Butler remains in custody, awaiting the next steps in a legal process shaped by both a swift arrest and a long record of similar crimes.
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