EPD SAYS: It Was a Wild Year in Armed Robberies of Banks and Businesses, But We Solved Almost All of 'Em

EPD SAYS: It Was a Wild Year in Armed Robberies of Banks and Businesses, But We Solved Almost All of ‘Em

From the Eureka Police Department:

In 2016, the Eureka Police Department experienced a significant increase in commercial armed robbery reports compared to 2015. Eureka Police detectives worked tirelessly behind the scenes to solve each case and make arrests. During a 13-month span, February 2016 through February 2017, EPD’s Criminal Investigation Section (CIS) solved 29 armed robberies, 9 of which were from other agencies. In total, 10 were arrested and 1 is wanted on four counts of robbery.
Detective Sergeant O’Neill said, “Armed robberies do not only place the citizens in an extremely dangerous situation, but it also puts them through undo emotional stress that doesn’t end at the conclusion of the robbery. Violent crimes like these will not be tolerated. Detectives of the Eureka Police Department are committed to investigating these crimes until the offenders are captured and brought to justice.”
Chief Mills said, “Armed robbery is a violent crime that puts all citizens in harm’s way. EPD will do everything within our power and investigative tool bag to hunt you down and prosecute you.”
Humboldt County District Attorney, Maggie Fleming said, “Robbery - when a person takes property from another by force or fear - is a violent and frightening crime, which is why California has made it one of the “strike” offenses. The District Attorney’s Office argues for a prison commitment for anyone who commits robbery. The District Attorney’s Office also consistently argues for the additional time that can be added for use of firearm in a robbery - which can be up to 10 additional years.”
A detailed presentation of the solved armed robberies can be found on the EPD’s transparency portal. Updated crime stats can also be found on our website.