BEL AIR, Md.–A credit union teller has been charged in a home invasion involving an elderly member who had earlier withdrawn a large amount of money from their CU account.
The Harford County (Md.) Sheriff’s Office has arrested Michael Newell, 19, a teller at Freedom Federal Credit Union for allegedly forcing his way into the home of the member and attempting to commit a robbery. Newell has now been fired, according to the CU.
In a statement, the Sheriff’s Office said at 8:30 p.m. it “responded to the 1800 block of Still Pond Way in Bel Air in reference to a burglary in progress. Upon arrival, deputies were informed an unknown male rang the doorbell, then forced his way into the residence when the resident opened the door. The suspect immediately began assaulting the resident, a 78-year-old male, until a second resident, a 57-year-old female, intervened. At that time, the suspect ran upstairs, and the second resident ran to a nearby home to call police. The suspect fled the area prior to deputies’ arrival. Additional deputies responded to the scene and with assistance from a K9 Unit canvassed the area in an unsuccessful attempt to locate the suspect.”
The MCSO said both residents suffered injuries as a result of the incident, with medics treating the woman at the scene, while the male was transported to Johns Hopkins Bayview for treatment of what are believed to be non-life-threatening injuries.
Suspect Identified
“As the investigation continued, it was determined one of the victims had removed a large amount of money from the bank. Detectives gained information identifying a teller at the bank as a suspect,” the Sheriff’s Office said in its statement. “The suspect was identified as Nathan Michael Newell, 19, of Bel Air.”
Police said Newell has been charged with home invasion, robbery, 1st and 3rd degree burglary, and 1st and 2nd degree assault. He was transported to the Harford County Detention Center, where he is currently being held without bail.
In a statement to CNN, Michael MacPherson, president and CEO of Freedom Federal Credit Union, said in a statement, "We are shocked and appalled to hear of the events that led to the assault and injury of a longtime member of our credit union. Our thoughts go out to him, and his family, during this difficult time."