The notorious New York City bank robber dubbed the “Burberry Bandit” is seen by his family as a symptom of the systemic failings within the city’s mental health services and a misguided pursuit of style, according to statements given to The Post.
Cornell Neilly caught the public’s attention last week after his arrest on September 15, while serving parole, for allegedly committing a series of bank heists between August 16 and September 13. His rapid release by a progressive judge, despite his 29 prior bank robbery charges, has sparked outrage among law enforcement and the community.
Family members shared insights with The Post into the possible motivations behind the 35-year-old’s criminal activities, linking them to his desire for luxury and style.
“He earned that nickname because of his sharp dressing,” an aunt revealed from the Upper West Side residence where Neilly was arrested. “He always looked well put together,” she added, opting to remain unnamed.
Neilly first gained notoriety back in 2012, when surveillance footage captured him clad in Burberry’s iconic tartan during a robbery at a Midtown Bank of America.
According to an adoptive grandmother living with him, Neilly’s recent return to robbing banks might be linked to his bipolar disorder and a lapse in medication. “I truly believe he needs to be back on his prescriptions,” she remarked, also requesting anonymity.
Although Neilly’s family has expressed concern, there’s no available record indicating that he has sought mental health assistance from city services.
On the day of his arrest, the two women, including his aunt, were present when police approached. “He said he was just going over to speak with his parole officer,” the aunt recounted. Shortly thereafter, multiple police cars arrived, leading to a dramatic arrest scene.
“I think he was startled and initially tried to flee, but then he realized running wasn’t the best choice,” the aunt remembered, noting that Neilly ultimately surrendered peacefully.
Controversially, Judge Jeffrey Gershuny, appointed by former Mayor Bill de Blasio in 2019, disregarded the prosecution’s request for a substantial cash bail and released Neilly while he was under parole supervision.
Post-release, Neilly returned to the Upper West Side apartment he shared with his family. His adoptive grandmother shared, “I told him I loved him and urged him to stay out of trouble.” In response, Neilly lowered his gaze and replied, “Okay, grandma, I love you too,” a tender moment she recounted.
She expressed her determination to not tolerate any more reckless behavior, adding, “I’m going to ring his neck,” highlighting the family’s frustration and concern for his choices.
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