Detectives from the Bank Task Force — comprised of members of the Metropolitan Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation — announced today the quick closure of a bank robbery. The suspect was taken into custody at approximately 12:30 pm.

At approximately 11:14 this morning, a suspect walked into the SunTrust Bank at 1369 Connecticut Avenue, NW, and presented a demand note to the teller. The teller complied with the note and handed an undisclosed sum of US currency to the suspect. The individual subsequently fled the bank and made good his escape.

Working in partnership with SunTrust Bank security personnel, members of the Bank Task Force closed the case with the arrest of Edward Parker Haskeil, of the 1700 block of Massachusetts Avenue, SE. He has been charged with Robbery (Fear) of a bank, a federal offense.

The case represents a tremendous use of technology: at approximately 11:15 am, the robbery was broadcast over the Department’s radio and the first units arrived on the scene at 11:16 am. SunTrust security personnel provided a photo of the suspect to officials equipped with handheld communications devices. The information was immediately disseminated to units from the Second, Third, and Fifth Districts, along with personnel from the K-9 and Air Support units. This technology collaboration resulted in members of the Task Force locating and arresting Mr. Haskeil at an establishment in the 1700 block of Benning Road, NE.

Chief Cathy L. Lanier says the quick arrest of the suspect points out the importance of modern technology. “The use of various technologies and communications to coordinate this effort resulted in a swift end to the case. “The use of various technologies and communications to coordinate this effort resulted in a swift end to the case. Would-be bank robbers are put on notice: we’re prepared and we’re coming after you,”  said Chief Lanier.