Ikiko Brown Sentenced; Refuses To Testify Against Cousin

Utica, NY (WIBX) - A man who has admitted to his involvement in two local bank robberies this summer seemed to have a change of heart when he appeared for sentencing Wednesday. 

Ikiko Brown, 24, claimed he didn't know what was going on and didn't realize that by pleading guilty to two counts of robbery, he'd also have to waive his right to appeal. After claiming his attorney didn't explain all the details to him, and had verbally abused him, Ikiko agreed to sign a waiver of his right to appeal.

Judge Michael Dwyer sentenced Ikiko Brown to 30 years in prison, plus five years of post release supervision.

Prosecutors say Ikiko and Brian Brown were behind the robberies of the Bank of American in Utica and NBT Bank in Rome.

Brian Brown's next court appearance is scheduled for next month. Prosecutors say Ikiko Brown could have had his sentence reduced to 25 years, if he testified against his cousin. Ikiko Brown refused.