US man jailed 10 years for using ChatGPT to plan bank robbery

A 23-year-old man from Omaha, Nebraska, has been sentenced to over 10 years in federal prison for robbing a bank using ChatGPT to plan the crime. Deron Lewis-Payne received a 121-month sentence on August 13, 2026, for the armed robbery and for brandishing a firearm during the violent offense.

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He pointed the handgun at the tellers and told them he would kill them if they did not comply.

Lewis-Payne entered an i3 Bank branch on February 10, brandishing a semi-automatic handgun. He threatened two employees, demanding cash and warning them against including dye packs. The tellers complied, and Lewis-Payne escaped with approximately $9,175. Investigators identified him using surveillance footage from the bank and nearby cameras, noting his unmasked face and distinctive red Nike slides.

The investigation took a significant turn when officers examined Lewis-Payne's phone. They discovered he had used ChatGPT to strategize the robbery. His queries included seeking advice on "law enforcement response times," instructions on how to "strip and repair a Llama Mini-Max .45 handgun," and how to acquire ammunition despite being a felon. His Google Maps history also showed a recent search for directions to the bank.

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Officers examined the contents and determined Lewis-Payne used ChatGPT to plan the robbery.

Following the robbery, Lewis-Payne reportedly went on a shopping spree. When apprehended near one of his residences, he fled, leaving behind banded cash. A search of his properties yielded more currency, the vehicle used in the robbery, and clothing worn during the incident, including the red Nike slides. Lewis-Payne admitted to driving the vehicle but denied direct participation in the robbery.

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not to include any dye packs with the cash.