Police issue precautionary measures after two bank robberies

Two people were robbed within minutes of each other Monday afternoon outside two different Annapolis-area banks, Anne Arundel County police said. County police said officers were called to the Truist Bank in the 2300 block of Solomons Island Road around 4 p.m., where a man returning to his car was approached by two men, one of whom was carrying a handgun. Police said the men stole money from the victim and fled in a dark-colored sedan. County police said officers were called about a half-hour later to the Navy Federal Credit Union in the 800 block of Bestgate Road, where a man returning to his car after using the ATM was approached by two men, each armed with a handgun. The attackers demanded cash from the victim, who complied. The attackers fled in a dark-colored sedan, which was spotted by an officer, but the vehicle got away. Investigators are still investigating whether those incidents are related. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 410-222-1960 or the Anne Arundel County police tip line at 410-222-4700. Some people said they were surprised. “The fact that you did this to an older adult, I don’t like bullies. And the fact that you took advantage of an older person in this way just drives me crazy,” said Kisha Bowles, who is a frequent visitor to Annapolis. Police said cases of this type of targeted crime, which they call “bank fraud,” are increasing regionally. “It appears that these opportunistic criminals are targeting individuals who are entering and sometimes exiting banks, whether it’s with money in an envelope or they’re kind of watching them, preying on them if you will while they’re standing at an ATM and waiting for them to get back to their cars and then they’re robbing them at gunpoint,” Anne Arundel County Police spokesman Justin Mulcahy told 11 News.People are hoping everyone is taking measures to protect themselves.”You keep your eyes on the swivel, your head on the swivel,” said Roger Edwards, who is a frequent visitor to Annapolis. “There’s no respect anymore. For the older, for the young, for the middle class, you know, there’s just no respect for other people’s things.”Police suggest the following precautions when withdrawing cash from banks or ATMs.Be aware of your surroundings: Be aware of anyone who might be observing your activities outside a bank or at an ATM.Hide cash and banking items: Keep cash discreetly, such as in a purse or wallet, and avoid showing bank bags or envelopes that might attract attention.Vary your routine: Criminals often look for patterns, so change your habits when it comes to banking and withdrawing cash.Secure your vehicle: Make sure your vehicle is locked, windows are closed, and valuables are out of sight to reduce the chance of becoming a target.Report suspicious activity: If you notice someone acting suspiciously or think you are being followed, report it to police as soon as possible. The Anne Arundel County Police Department’s non-emergency number is 410-222-8610. For crimes in progress, violent crimes, or other emergencies, call or text 911.