Three Northern Utah residents have been indicted on charges of robbing a credit union, according to a press release from the United States Attorney’s Office, District of Utah. The indictment follows an investigation into an incident that occurred in South Salt Lake City on September 4, 2026.
According to court documents, a credit union teller reported that a male, identified as 52-year-old Fidel Ybarra of Riverdale, entered the facility carrying a backpack. Ybarra reportedly passed a note demanding cash and claiming he was holding an explosive device in the backpack. The teller then handed Ybarra $1,234.00 after Ybarra displayed what appeared to be an improvised explosive device. Ybarra fled the scene in a red Dodge Durango, with Brelyn Sanchez, 37, of Ogden, identified as the driver.
Investigation revealed that 31-year-old Thomas Domingo Bustos of Layton allegedly planned the robbery. Federal investigators stated that Bustos created a hoax explosive device using fireworks and duct tape and drafted the demand note. Surveillance video also identified a red BMW, registered to Bustos, in connection with the robbery. After the theft, Sanchez and Ybarra reportedly met at a residence where Bustos took the money.
The motive for the robbery is linked to alleged gambling debts. In an interview with investigators, Ybarra stated that Bustos held him responsible for losing $19,000 at a Wendover casino and had threatened Ybarra and his family if the money was not repaid. Sanchez admitted to driving the Dodge Durango but stated she believed the suspect was merely collecting money owed to him from a female.
The initial court appearance on the indictment is scheduled for Friday at 11 a.m. at the Orrin G. Hatch United States Courthouse in Salt Lake City. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carlos A. Esqueda.
