UPDATE: A homeless man has just waived his preliminary hearing on serious bank robbery charges stemming from an attempted robbery in Upper Darby last month. Michael McGuigan, 49, originally from Philadelphia, faces two felony counts of robbery and one misdemeanor count of theft by unlawful taking after the incident at the Bank of America on October 8, 2023.
This urgent legal development was confirmed as McGuigan opted to waive his hearing, originally scheduled for November 6, 2023, before Magisterial District Judge Benjamin Johns. In a negotiated agreement, Assistant District Attorney Christopher Downey agreed to withdraw the misdemeanor charge in exchange for McGuigan’s waiver of the hearing on the felony counts.
The bank robbery attempt occurred around 10:32 a.m. when police received a call regarding a suspect still inside the bank. Officers arrived to find McGuigan, matching the suspect’s description, standing outside the bank. He openly admitted to the attempted robbery, according to an affidavit from Upper Darby Detective Mazen Malak.
Witnesses reported that McGuigan had approached a teller, attempting to force his hand through the service opening while demanding cash. When confronted about his actions, he bluntly affirmed, “Yes it is,” confirming the robbery.
McGuigan remains in custody at the county jail in Concord. His next court appearance is set for December 31, 2023, for formal arraignment at the County Courthouse in Media. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for McGuigan, as his waiver is contingent upon a nontrial disposition. If not resolved, the theft charge may be reintroduced for trial.
As this situation continues to develop, it raises vital questions about the intersection of homelessness and crime, prompting conversations around the support systems in place for vulnerable populations.
Stay tuned for further updates on this compelling case as it unfolds.
