US man who used ChatGPT to plan bank robbery jailed 121 months

A 23-year-old man from Omaha, Nebraska, has been sentenced to 121 months in federal prison for robbing a bank and using the AI chatbot ChatGPT to assist in planning the crime. Deron Lewis-Payne received his sentence on August 13, 2026, after pleading guilty to bank robbery and brandishing a firearm during the offense.

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

The incident occurred on February 10, when Lewis-Payne entered an i3 Bank branch, brandished a handgun, and threatened two employees. He demanded money and instructed the tellers not to include dye packs in the cash. The employees complied, and Lewis-Payne escaped with approximately $9,175.

Investigators identified Lewis-Payne through surveillance footage from the bank and nearby cameras. His distinctive red Nike slides were noted in the footage. A crucial turn in the investigation came when officers examined Lewis-Payne's phone, discovering that he had used ChatGPT to plan the robbery. His queries included seeking information on "law enforcement response times" and how to "strip and repair a Llama Mini-Max .45 handgun," as well as how to obtain ammunition despite being a felon.

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

Lewis-Payne admitted to driving the vehicle used in the robbery but denied direct participation. Following the crime, he reportedly went on a shopping spree. When apprehended, he fled from officers, abandoning cash. A search of his residences uncovered more money, the vehicle, and clothing worn during the robbery, including the red Nike slides.

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not to include any dye packs with the cash.