Sioux Falls man admits to holding up bank

A 45-year-old Sioux Falls man has admitted to holding up a bank on East 10th Street in March and stealing nearly $9,000.

Rickey Starks pleaded guilty last week in federal court to bank robbery. The charge carries a possible sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine.

Starks will be sentenced on Oct. 5.

The incident took place on March 5 at the Dacotah Bank on East 10th Street.

A masked Starks armed with an airsoft handgun walked into the bank and demanded money.

“Fill the bag,” he told the three bank tellers. The drive-up teller complied and placed $8,790 in Starks backpack. He then fled.

Investigators released surveillance footage and photos of Starks to the public following the incident. A couple of tips from people who recognized his walk, pants and coat were phoned-in.

Starks was found at his home, just a few blocks from the bank. He was arrested following a three-hour standoff with law enforcement.

According to court records, Starks told law enforcement that he needed money to pay his bills, so he decided to rob the bank.

Until his arrest for bank robbery, Starks had only speeding and seat belt tickets on his criminal record. He doesn't have a protection order taken out against him. He's not involved in any civil lawsuit.

Starks’ federal public defender declined to comment on the case.