Bank Robbery and in Quick Order Suspect Arrested

On July 8, 2015, at approximately 12:30 PM, Santa Cruz Police responded to a report of a robbery at Wells Fargo Bank at 74 River Street.

The suspect walked into the bank and threatened a bank employee by simulating a handgun under his shirt. The suspect robber confronted the bank employee and demanded cash. The bank teller turned over the cash to the suspect. The bank robber, described as an African American male wearing a red sweatshirt and black backpack, then fled on foot.

The bank teller was able to provide a strong detailed description of the suspect and the direction in which the suspect fled. No one was injured in the robbery.

Several officers responded and quickly established a perimeter. The officers located the suspect hiding under a bridge near the San Lorenzo River.

The bank robber was identified as Michael Holt, 31 year old, Santa Cruz area transient. Mr. Holt was found in possession of the exact amount of cash taken during the robbery. Additionally, Mr. Holt was identified as the robber by witnesses. Detectives also obtained bank video capturing the robbery.

Michael Holt surrendered without incident and was booked into jail for the bank robbery. Mr. Holt has a history of arrest with the Santa Cruz Police Department.