Detectives Unravel Alleged Halloween Bank Robbery Plot

An investigation into a string of residential burglaries near downtown Palm Harbor led detectives to an alleged Halloween robbery plot against the in Palm Harbor. Now, two Palm Harbor men are behind bars, accused of the crimes.

Detectives with the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office arrested 27 year-old Matthew Thomas and 24 year-old Thomas Fields on Oct. 17.

Investigators say the men forced their way into as many as ten homes in the downtown Palm Harbor area from mid-September to mid-October and stole items like jewelry, electronics, tools and cash, then sold some of the items at local pawn shops.  

After detectives arrested the men, they obtained a warrant to search the home where the suspects live. Detectives say they found a portfolio containing handwritten notes with precise details about how the pair planned to rob the Patriot Bank located at 1103 Florida Ave. on Halloween.

Investigators say the suspects planned to wear masks from the movie, "Scream" along with two layers of clothing, one of which they planned to shed after they left the bank. The pair also planned to use two rental cars, one to drive to the bank, the other would be parked nearby for a getaway car.

Investigators say they also found drawings and maps of the inside and outside of the bank which led them to believe the suspects had become familiar with the bank. The suspects also allegedly kept track of cars driven by bank employees, so the suspects would know who was working when.

Detectives say both men admitted to planning the bank robbery.

27-year-old Matthew Thomas was arrested on the following charges-

• One count: Burglary occupied
• Four counts: Burglary unoccupied
• One count: Conspiracy to commit armed robbery

24-year-old Thomas Fields was arrested on the following charges-

• Five counts: Burglary unoccupied 
• One-count: Conspiracy to commit armed robbery

 The investigation continues. More charges are expected to be filed.

Palm Harbor Crime Blotter