Marina
A 60-year-old man from Emporia, identified as David Early Gay, has been sentenced to five years and five months in federal prison for his involvement in a Hobbs Act Robbery committed in 2023.
The U.S. Department of Justice officially announced the sentencing, which took place on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.
Details of the Walmart Robbery Incident
According to court records, the robbery occurred on August 19, 2023, at a Walmart store located in Emporia. During the incident:
- Gay entered the store and approached a clerk at the service desk.
- He instructed the clerk to remain silent and hand over the money.
- After receiving the cash, Gay fled the scene in a rusted white van.
Police Investigation and Arrest
Authorities traced the van to a registered address and executed a search warrant at the residence, which included a trailer and a nearby shed. The search led to several discoveries:
| Evidence Found | Location |
|---|---|
| David Gay | Inside the trailer |
| Stolen money | In Gay’s pants pocket |
| Additional stolen funds | Inside a metal shed |
These findings directly linked Gay to the Walmart robbery.
Extensive Criminal Background
Gay’s criminal history includes a long list of prior convictions, demonstrating a consistent pattern of unlawful behavior. His past offenses include:
- Breaking and entering
- Uttering forged instruments
- Common law and statutory forgery
- Larceny
- Possession of stolen property
- Statutory burglary
- Child neglect and abuse
- Contributing to the delinquency of a minor
- Armed bank robbery
Notably, he was already under supervised release for an armed bank robbery conviction at the time he committed the Walmart heist.
DOJ Statement
The Department of Justice emphasized that this latest sentencing reflects the gravity of Gay’s repeated offenses and his disregard for court-ordered supervision. His imprisonment serves both as a punishment and a preventive measure.
David Early Gay’s sentencing to five years and five months in federal prison marks another chapter in a long criminal history. With prior convictions ranging from forgery to child neglect and armed robbery, his latest offense underscores the seriousness of repeat criminal behavior.
The Department of Justice remains committed to holding offenders accountable and ensuring public safety through stringent enforcement of federal laws.