SACO — A Lewiston man has been sentenced to 51 months in prison for the armed robbery of a convenience store in Saco, police said.
Max Gbetibouo, 51, was convicted for the September 19, 2021, robbery of the Irving on Portland Road.
According to the Saco Police Department, Gbetibouo entered the store, displayed a firearm to the clerk, demanded money, and fled on foot.
The Saco Police Department’s Patrol and Criminal Investigation Unit launched an immediate and thorough investigation following the incident.
Tips from the public were instrumental in identifying Gbetibouo as the suspect.
After executing several search warrants and collaborating with multiple agencies, Gbetibouo was apprehended by the Maine State Police during a commercial vehicle inspection in May.
U.S. District Judge Nancy Torresen handed down the sentence, which also includes three years of supervised release after Gbetibouo’s time in prison.
Torresen pointed out that Gbetibouo, an Ivory Coast national, is likely to face deportation after his incarceration.
Additionally, Gbetibouo has been ordered to pay restitution to the victim.
He pleaded guilty to the charges on August 13.
The successful resolution of the case was aided by cooperation between the Saco Police Department, Portland Police Department, FBI, ATF, the United States Attorney’s Office, and Maine State Police, all of whom the Saco Police Department expressed gratitude towards for their assistance in the investigation.