Approximately two hours prior to this bank robbery, the Madison Police Department reported that the Liberty Bank in their town was robbed by a lone white male with a surgical mask covering his face.

   In addition, the North Branford Police Department had been actively investigating a similar bank robbery that had occurred in their town on 10/15/11.

   State Police Detectives worked in conjunction with the Madison and North Branford Police Departments in developing leads in these similar bank robberies.  Detectives uncovered investigative leads and evidence that developed the identity of a suspect. A search and seizure warrant was obtained from Superior Court and the suspect’s vehicle was seized during the course of this investigation. The suspect has been tied to three bank robberies. Accused Bishop citied financial difficulties as the driving force of committing these robberies

   Detectives obtained an arrest warrant from Middletown Superior Court for the arrest of the accused. On 12/30/11, the accused surrendered to State Police at Troop F in Westbrook after learning of the arrest warrant.   

ARRESTED: Christopher Bishop, DOB: 09/11/74

                 41 Phillips Court, East Haven, CT

CHARGES:  Robbery 3^rd

                 Larceny 2^nd

   Bishop was held on a court-set $150,000 bond.  Bishop will appear in Middletown Superior Court today 12/30/11 for an arraignment.

###END##

LT. J. Paul Vance