PHILADELPHIA, PA — Lawrence McKay, 37, of Philadelphia, was sentenced to 32 years in prison and five years of supervised release for orchestrating a series of six armed robberies targeting cell phone stores in February 2021. The sentence was handed down on February 12, 2025, by United States District Court Judge Gerald A. McHugh. McKay was also ordered to pay over $100,000 in restitution, including coverage for medical expenses incurred by his victims.
McKay previously pled guilty to all six robberies and two counts of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. During the robberies, McKay and his co-conspirators threatened employees at gunpoint, forcing them to surrender cash and merchandise. Two victims were shot during the spree, including one who was critically injured. Both individuals survived.
U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero emphasized the severity of McKay’s actions, stating, “Lawrence McKay and his crew were a crime spree unto themselves, racking up six armed robberies in less than three weeks. It was imperative to get McKay off the street before anyone else was harmed, or worse, at his behest. This sentence keeps him behind bars for decades and holds him accountable for the crimes he led.”
McKay’s accomplices also received significant prison terms. Co-defendant Brenton Holmes, convicted in five of the robberies, was sentenced to 30 years. Dana Toby received a 15-year sentence for her involvement in two robberies, while Demon McNeil and Dashonna Hoskins were sentenced to eight years and 50 months, respectively, for aiding in singular incidents.
“The brazen acts committed in this case instilled fear in our community and put our citizens at risk,” stated Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia. “The FBI remains steadfast in our commitment to working alongside our local, state, and federal partners to combat violent crime, protect our city, and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.”
The investigation involved collaboration among the FBI, Philadelphia Police Department, Lower Merion Township Police Department, Bristol Township Police Department, Norristown Police Department, and Warminster Township Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Amanda R. Reinitz, Amanda McCool, and Anthony Carissimi prosecuted the case.
The successful conclusion of this case marks a significant step in enhancing safety for Philadelphia and its surrounding communities. By removing violent offenders like McKay from the streets, law enforcement agencies aim to reaffirm their commitment to combating crime and protecting residents from harm.
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