SWAT Team Responds to Man’s 3rd Bank Robbery

On the early morning of September 9, 2022, a seemingly ordinary day in Waycross, Georgia, took a dramatic turn as a bank robbery unfolded at Ammeris Bank. This incident would not only involve stolen cash but would escalate into a dangerous hostage situation, ultimately drawing the attention of the FBI and local law enforcement. The events that transpired that day reveal the chaos, tension, and consequences of a crime that many might think is a quick way to get rich but often leads to dire repercussions.

The Call to 911

It all began with a frantic call to 911. A witness, clearly shaken, reported the robbery, describing the suspect as a man in a gray hoodie and black hat, his face obscured by a blue mask. The urgency in the caller’s voice was palpable as she conveyed the details to the dispatcher: “We were just robbed. Do you know who they were? What were they wearing?” The dispatcher probed for more information, but the witness could only provide limited details. The robber had approached her with a note demanding money, and though he kept his hand in his pocket, there was uncertainty about whether he was armed.

As the minutes passed, the police began to piece together the scene. Witnesses reported seeing the man flee from the bank and jump into a gray four-door car. The urgency of the situation escalated, as officers raced against time to apprehend the suspect before he could disappear.

The Investigation Begins

Law enforcement quickly mobilized, with officers canvassing the area and interviewing witnesses. They checked nearby businesses for security footage that might provide crucial evidence. As they gathered information, a significant lead emerged: the getaway vehicle was traced back to a man named Steven Ham. In a twist of fate, Ham admitted to driving 34-year-old Matthew McCloskey, the suspected robber, to the bank that morning.

Ham’s cooperation led investigators to a shocking revelation: after the robbery, McCloskey had been dropped off at his girlfriend’s house and later took a taxi to a nearby Motel 6. The taxi driver confirmed that they had paid the fare with a marked $20 bill from the robbery, providing critical evidence that linked McCloskey directly to the crime.

The Hostage Situation

As investigators closed in on McCloskey’s location, they discovered he was holed up in a motel room with a female companion. The situation quickly turned from a simple robbery investigation into a tense hostage scenario. Officers surrounded the motel, their hearts racing as they prepared to confront a potentially dangerous criminal.

“Waycross Police Department, come to the door!” they shouted, trying to coax McCloskey out. But instead of compliance, they were met with silence and barricaded doors. Tension mounted as officers realized they were dealing with a suspect who might be desperate enough to harm the hostage.

The female companion’s voice could be heard through the door, pleading for help. “He won’t let me out!” she cried, adding a chilling layer to the already volatile situation. Officers had to act swiftly, knowing that every second counted. They attempted to negotiate, urging McCloskey to release the hostage and surrender peacefully.

The Standoff

As the standoff continued, officers prepared for the worst. They knew they had to breach the door to ensure the safety of the hostage. “We’re going to send a dog through the window!” one officer shouted, hoping to intimidate McCloskey into surrendering. The situation was precarious; any misstep could lead to violence.

Finally, the moment of truth arrived. Officers forced their way into the room, weapons drawn. “Show me your hands! Get on the ground!” they commanded. The atmosphere was electric with tension as they confronted McCloskey. He was quickly subdued, but not without resistance. Officers had to use a taser to bring him under control, highlighting the volatile nature of the situation.

The Aftermath

Once the chaos subsided, the officers ensured the hostage was safe and unharmed. McCloskey was arrested and taken into custody, facing charges of bank robbery and kidnapping. His criminal history revealed a troubling pattern; he was a repeat offender with previous bank robbery convictions in New York. The amount stolen during this heist totaled $877, a sum that would ultimately lead to his downfall.

In the wake of the incident, FBI Agent Will Clark remarked, “By now, Matthew McCloskey should realize robbing a bank is not a winning proposition.” The investigation, led by the Waycross Police Department and the FBI, culminated in a successful prosecution in federal court. McCloskey was sentenced to 14 years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. His accomplice, Steven Ham, was also charged and faced serious consequences for his role in the crime.

The Bigger Picture

This case serves as a stark reminder of the realities of bank robbery. While some may fantasize about the quick cash it could provide, the truth is far grimmer. According to the FBI’s 2023 bank crime statistics, there were only about 1,362 bank crime incidents nationwide, a stark decline from the peak of nearly 9,388 robberies reported in 1991. The decrease in bank robberies can be attributed to improved security measures, increased surveillance, and the coordinated efforts of law enforcement agencies.

Bank robberies are not just street-level crimes; they attract federal attention and multi-agency involvement, making it increasingly difficult for perpetrators to evade justice. The evidence collected during investigations—cameras, witness statements, and digital footprints—creates a comprehensive picture that law enforcement can use to build a case against suspects.

Conclusion

The story of Matthew McCloskey is not just about a bank robbery gone wrong; it’s a cautionary tale that underscores the futility of crime. The consequences of his actions extended far beyond a moment of desperation. Lives were put at risk, and the aftermath left a community shaken.

As McCloskey sits in prison, he is left to contemplate the choices that led him there. His story serves as a powerful reminder that crime does not pay, and the pursuit of quick riches can lead to a lifetime of regret. In the end, the true cost of his actions was far greater than any amount of stolen cash.