'I need some money, man,' says alleged California bank robber
Jan 07, 2025
REEDLEY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) - A man was arrested on Saturday after allegedly attempting to grab cash from a teller at a bank in Reedley, the city's police department said.
According to police, on Jan. 4 at around 9 a.m. they responded to a Wells Fargo bank in the 1600 block of 11th Street regarding an attempted robbery. Police say the suspect was identified as Manual Ortiz Romero.
Manuel Ortiz Romero
Romero had entered the bank and approached a teller while the teller was assisting with a customer.
Police say Romero had attempted to grab cash from the teller but was unsuccessful. He then reached over the teller's counter and started to throw items while shouting "I need some money man," according to the Reedley Police Department.
According to police, Romero then fled on foot, leading officers on a search to apprehend him. He was found at his home two hours later where he was interviewed by officers.
Police say that Romero confirmed he was not a bank customer and visited it just "for fun."
Officers placed Romero into custody and he was transported to the Fresno County Jail and charged on suspicion of attempted robbery.