Konias Sentenced To Life In Prison In Armored Vehicle Heist
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – A former armored car guard convicted of killing his co-worker and stealing millions of dollars will spend the rest of his life in prison.
Ann Haines came to the sentencing hearing for Kenneth Konias carrying a picture of her son Michael, the victim in this case.
At trial, investigators said they believed Konias arranged an unusual placement of money during a Garda security truck pickup at Rivers Casino, and then shot Haines in the parking lot of a Home Depot in Ross Township.
The truck was discovered underneath the 31st Street Bridge with $2.3 million missing and Haines dead.
Konias eventually was discovered in Pompano Beach, Fla., along with much of the cash.
Ann Haines never spoke publicly about the case until this brief statement after the hearing on Tuesday.
"Our only statement is that we thank you all for respecting our privacy," she said. "We are greatly relieved that this is over and Mike will always be deeply missed."
But just before sentencing, Judge David Cashman had an unusual exchange with Konias.
Konias declined to say anything when it was his turn to speak. Then, as the judge began to go over the reasons why he thought Konias planned it all, Konias interrupted.
Konias: "Can I say something?"
Judge: "No, you had your chance."
Konias: "I'd like to suggest that you not lecture me and give me my sentence so we can all proceed."
Judge: "What you did was cowardly. You put the value of money over the value of human life."
Konias was then sentenced to life for the homicide plus 10 to 20 years on top of that for the robbery.
In his victim impact statement, Ryan Unger, the victim's cousin, told the judge that Konias stole more than $2.3 million. He stole Michael's life and his future.
Haines' family issued a statement following the sentencing hearing this morning:
"Though the action of the court today brings us a valued sense of closure, and we now have a chance look forward; the loss of Mike will be with us every day. He will be forever loved and deeply missed for the unique way he blessed our lives and those of so many around him. On behalf of Michael Haines and his father, we express our heartfelt gratitude to all of the authorities who worked tirelessly to bring us to this conclusion."
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