One of the biggest robberies in U.S. history happened here. In 1997, Loomis Fargo employee David Ghantt robbed the armored car company of $17 million. Then-Charlotte Observer reporter Jeff Diamant wrote extensively about the story as it unfolded and later wrote a book. Now, Charlotte’s most famous crime is about to become the movie “Masterminds.” We check back in with Jeff Diamant.
Guest Jeff Diamant - former reporter for the Charlotte Observer, author of Heist: The Oddball Crew Behind the $17 Million Loomis Fargo Theft (updated edition from the original published in 1997.)
Event: Jeff Diamant will speak at Park Road Books this Friday, Sept. 30 at 7:00 p.m. Details.
WFAE’s Sarah Delia spoke with David Ghantt, the Loomis Fargo employee that stole $17 million from the armored car company in 1997. They talked about that time in his life and about how those events have been portrayed in the film Masterminds. She started by asking him if the filmmakers had consulted him before they made their movie. Listen to the interview:
Related:
Charlotte Observer: Jeff Diamant’s ‘Heist’ details 1997 Loomis Fargo robbery in Charlotte
Charlotte Observer: Will Loomis Fargo heist movie ‘Masterminds’ be worth (loooong) wait?
Asheville Citizen Times: The true crime behind Asheville-based Galifianakis film