Accused Bellevue Bank Robber Only Got $101: Police

BELLEVUE, WA - A young woman who allegedly knocked off a Bellevue bank in March was homeless, unemployed, and in need of drug treatment when she allegedly carried out the robbery, according to police and court documents.

Jonni Hayes, 24, was arrested April 11 at a home in South Seattle owned by her husband's parents. After she was arrested, Hayes allegedly told police she came up with the idea to rob the Chase along Northeast 8th Street while out driving around with her husband.

"The teller gave her $101 and she left," Bellevue Det. Steven Hoover wrote in charging papers. He also wrote that Hayes admitted to him that she robbed the bank.

Hayes allegedly robbed the bank on March 22 around 5 p.m. Wearing a baggy hooded sweatshirt and a big baseball cap, Hayes allegedly handed the teller a note that read "Give me all of your $50's and $100's. Do not speak to any one. Cooperate and nobody needs to get hurt." She allegedly kept one hand concealed in a pocket, according to court documents.

The teller experienced computer problems during the robbery, but out of fear handed over $101 out of fear for her life. Multiple surveillance cameras captured images of the robbery and the getaway car. Police also found the robbery note at the scene. An investigator was able to pull a fingerprint off the note that allegedly belongs to Hayes.

The teller recognized Hayes as the robber after looking at her booking photo, police reported. Hayes has prior convictions for theft an reckless driving.

After she was arrested, Hayes told King County Superior Court that she was essentially homeless, had not been employed "for awhile." She also said that she needs chemical dependency treatment.

Image via King County Superior Court