• Posted on Friday, December 18, 2009
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First of 'Scarecrow Bandits' sentenced to prison in Texas

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The first member of "Scarecrow Bandits" to be sentenced for bank robbery was ordered on Thursday to serve nearly 16 years in prison.

Yolanda "Yo" McDow, 34, was given a sentence of 190 months -- two months shy of 16 years. U.S. District Judge Jane J. Boyle also ordered her to spay $336,976 in restitution.

McDow had cooperated with investigators after her arrest and testified against other gang members.

She pleaded guilty in July to the five robberies in which she participated as a "lookout" for the group, according to a news release from U.S. Attorney James T. Jacks of the Northern District of Texas.

Another defendant, Darobie Kentay Stenline, 31, also pleaded guilty to various charges related to bank robbery. His sentencing is set for Jan. 14.

The Scarecrows were named for their attire of floppy hats and flannel shirts during their earlier robberies.

They gained notoriety for robbing Dallas-area banks, and apparently considered a heist in Fort Worth but changed their minds.

The five other gang members were convicted in August, and their sentencing hearings are scheduled January through March.

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"Suits & Sentences" is written by Mike Doyle, who covers the Supreme Court for McClatchy's Washington Bureau. Send a story suggestion.