A brazen bank robbery unfolded last Friday in Slidell, Louisiana, carried out by a man who meticulously crafted a deceptive disguise. He entered Fidelity Bank appearing severely handicapped, relying on a cane and wearing a neck brace, immediately raising suspicions among the vigilant bank staff.
Surveillance footage revealed a calculated performance. The suspect hobbled inside, waited for other customers to depart, then slid a threatening note to the teller. Before the teller could fully register the message, he erupted with a shouted demand – “This is a robbery!” – a scene ripped straight from a film.
In a stunning display, the robber swiftly stuffed an undisclosed amount of cash into a fanny pack, snatched back his note, and then, in a moment that defied expectation, discarded the cane and sprinted out the door. The limp vanished instantly, revealing the entire charade.
Police described the suspect’s appearance as a glaring “red flag,” noting the layers of clothing, a face mask obscuring his identity, and the overall contrived nature of his condition. It was a performance designed to disarm and distract, a gamble that briefly paid off.
The suspect, later identified as 36-year-old Byron Watson, wasn’t a novice. Authorities revealed he was already on 20 years of federal probation for a previous bank robbery, labeling this incident as “not his first rodeo.”
A multi-agency manhunt, involving the Slidell Police Department, the FBI, Louisiana State Police, and the New Orleans Police Department, quickly mobilized. Investigators worked tirelessly, identifying Watson late the following evening and securing warrants for his arrest.
Watson attempted to evade capture by barricading himself inside a home in the Holly Grove neighborhood. However, the coordinated effort of law enforcement proved relentless. He was ultimately taken into custody peacefully, the fabricated limp conspicuously absent.
Despite the elaborate planning, authorities emphasized the relatively small reward wasn’t worth the risk. The investigation continues, focusing on tying up loose ends and determining whether Watson will face federal or state charges.
The swift apprehension, occurring less than a week after the robbery, underscores the dedication of local law enforcement. As one official stated, they will pursue suspects “anywhere” to ensure a rapid and decisive response to crime, contributing to historically low crime rates in Slidell.
Bank robberies are becoming increasingly rare due to advancements in security technology, but this case stood out for its sheer audacity and the intricate deception employed. It was a bold, albeit unsuccessful, attempt to exploit vulnerabilities and vanish with stolen funds.
