SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — The third time was not a charm for suspected bank robber George Jessie Gonzales, 55, of Santa Maria.
The suspect in three bank robberies committed since last month on the Central Coast was arrested April 18 in Atascadero, according to a press release from Arroyo Grande Police Department.
The robberies kicked off March 21 at Bank of America, 1401 Dolliver St. in Pismo Beach. The second one happened April 3 at Bank of America, 200 W. Branch St., Arroyo Grande.
Tonya Michelle Young
In the second and third robberies, Gonzales allegedly wore white face makeup, alluded to having a weapon but never showing one, and fled the scene on foot, according to a press release from the Atascadero Police Department. Police did not disclose the amount of cash taken in either incident.
Soon after the third robbery on April 17 at Chase Bank, 8055 El Camino Real in Atascadero, police apprehended the suspect’s getaway car after spotting it in the area. Tonya Michelle Young, 33, of Paso Robles, was driving the car; police found Gonzales hiding in the trunk.
Surveillance image of Gonzales
Gonzales and Young are both being held in San Luis Obispo County Jail. Gonzales faces robbery charges and Young faces robbery and conspiracy to commit robbery charges.
Read More:
Tribune: Santa Maria man suspected in Arroyo Grande, Pismo Beach bank robberies
KCOY: Same suspect in Pismo, Atascadero and Arroyo Grande bank robberies
