EAST ST. LOUIS — A 62-year-old man accused of robbing a federally insured bank in O’Fallon, Illinois, appeared in federal court last week to face a bank robbery charge, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois.
George E. Habermehl Jr. is charged with one count of bank robbery. The U.S. Attorney’s Office said the alleged robbery occurred around 11:10 a.m. March 20, 2026, at FCB Bank on Highway 50 in O’Fallon. Authorities said Habermehl was taken into custody after officers located him in East St. Louis.
“Anyone who robs a bank will face federal prison,” U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft said. “The O’Fallon Police Department acted decisively. They released the suspect’s image immediately, mobilized the public’s tips, and brought this defendant into custody the very same day. That is outstanding police work and exactly the kind of strong partnership that delivers results for our community.”
According to the complaint, Habermehl approached a teller, presented a demand note and demanded cash. After receiving the cash, he left the bank on foot, the complaint said.
After the robbery, the O’Fallon Police Department released still images of the alleged suspect on social media, the U.S. Attorney’s Office said. The department received several tips identifying the suspect as Habermehl, according to the complaint.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office said Habermehl is on federal probation for bank robbery and recently absconded.
“Protecting the integrity of our financial institutions and the safety of our citizens who work there is a top priority,” said FBI Springfield Acting Special Agent in Charge Karen Marinos. “Thanks to the diligent investigative work and support of the O’Fallon Police Department, we are sending a clear message that these actions will not be tolerated in our community.”
The FBI Springfield Field Office is investigating with support from the O’Fallon Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda Fischer is prosecuting the case.
A complaint is merely an allegation, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
