Quick-Change Bank Robber Not So Quick, Police Say

Clearwater, FL — A 44-year-old man accused in a failed Thursday morning bank robbery struck out a second time while allegedly attempting to disguise his appearance by swiping clothing for a quick change.

The incidents in question began to unfold just before noon at Clearwater Mall. Clearwater Police say the man walked into the Wells Fargo bank at 2699 Gulf-to-Bay Blvd. and proceeded to walk up to the teller. The man handed over a note that spelled out his intentions to rob the place, an email from police said.

The man, however, left the bank without getting any cash. Police didn’t elaborate on just what made the man give up the attempt.

Police say it was only four minutes after the bank robbery was reported, they were notified about a failed shoplifting attempt at the nearby Men’s Warehouse store. A man was caught in the act of trying to steal shirts, the email said.

“Not knowing it was the bank robbery suspect, an employee and customer of the business saw the man trying to steal shirts in an apparent attempt to change his wardrobe from the attempted bank heist,” the email said. “They wrestled him to the ground and held him until officers arrived on scene.”

That man, identified by police as Michael A. Pascuzzo, now faces bank robbery and retail theft charges.

No further information about either crime is currently available. Police say Pascuzzo will be booked into the Pinellas County Jail at some point on Thursday afternoon. An exact list of charges he now faces isn’t available. The Men’s Warehouse employee and good Samaritan have not been identified by police.

Photo courtesy of the Clearwater Police Department

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