- February 8, 2025
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A man was arrested Sunday after robbing the SunTrust Bank Saturday morning.
The Ormond Beach Police Department reported that Joseph Blankenbeckley, 34, approached a teller’s counter and passed her a note. The teller told police the note said something like “This is a bank robbery. Give me all large bills. Do not say anything to make it easy on yourself.”
The teller read the note and activated the silent hold-up alarm. After Blankenbeckley received the money, he fled the scene.
Shortly afterward, a witness told a police officer that he saw a black Jeep SUV driving recklessly as it left the SunTrust, running a stop sign and crossing Nova Road to park the vehicle in the Trustco Bank parking lot, where it was abandoned by Blankenbeckley.
Though the license plate was removed, police spotted it in the front passenger seat. It was registered under Blankenbeckley’s girflfriend, who said she was unaware of his plans.
Police then created a photo lineup and witnesses identified Blankenbeckley as the bank robber.
He was then found and arrested Sunday morning at the Rollies Motor Motel in Holly Hill thanks to a citizen’s tip. He was then handed over to OBPD.
