Santa Monica Armed Robbery Suspect Arrested

SANTA MONICA, CA — Santa Monica Police arrested a woman on suspicion of armed robbery at a bank in the city last month, authorities announced Friday.

SMPD arrested 51-year-old Yolanda Denise Caldwell of Los Angeles in connection to a robbery that took place at the First Citizens Banks on Montana Avenue on Sept. 22. Authorities said during the robbery, Caldwell pointed a firearm at the bank employees and demanded money.

"Fearing for their lives, two tellers handed over cash to the suspect who took it and fled out the back door of the bank," SMPD said in a statement.

Officers arrived after Caldwell fled the scene, but were able to review security footage to get pictures of her and the getaway vehicle to release in a public bulletin.

After investigation, detectives were able to identify Caldwell and obtain a warrant for her arrest. Authorities took Caldwell into custody on Oct. 26 in Redondo Beach.

Caldwell was booked on suspicion of robbery at the Santa Monica Jail.

Anyone who may have additional information about the incident was urged to contact Detective George Burciaga at George.Burciaga@santamonica.gov, Sergeant Ryan Gradle at Ryan.Gradle@santamonica.gov, or the Criminal Investigations Division at (310)458-8451 during business hours.