Criminal Uses Blow Torch On ATM
FORT LAUDERDALE (CBS4) - A creative criminal in Fort Lauderdale decided to target a Wachovia drive-up bank building on Federal Highway Wednesday morning by using a blow torch to try to gain access.
Police received a report at 5:30 a.m. Wednesday of a suspicious man in the area of the Wachovia bank who was carrying blow torches. After 7:00 a.m., the fire department responded to the scene and found the damage left by the robber.
"He gained entrance into the actual ATM area and began working with his torches on the actual safe," said Fort Lauderdale Police detective Travis Mandell. "There is damage to the interior of the ATM, fire damage and torches were located inside, and we also located further torches in the surrounding area where the suspect fled."
It wasn't clear if any money was actually taken from the bank and the crook was able to get away from Fort Lauderdale Police.
Fort Lauderdale Police said that the fact the criminal used a blow torch showed there was a meticulous planning.
The crime left customers shocked and saddened.
"I just feel that people are robbing for any little thing," said bank customer Gloria Doss. "Any way they can get in, they are stealing from hard working people."
"I think it's horrible, bank customer Robert Barner said. "It's sad that it's come to the point where they got to steal."
Police haven't said if there is surveillance video of the robbery, but are asking the public if they have any information on the crime to call Broward County CrimeStoppers at 954-493-TIPS (8477).
