Oak Lawn bank robbed by suspect with long criminal history

 Posted on June 15, 2012 in Criminal Defense

On Saturday afternoon, a robbery occurred at the Bank of America branch at 4046 W. 111th Street in Oak Lawn.  The suspect, 37 year old Charles B. Estell, is no stranger to the law, according to police.

Police reports state that Estell dropped from ceiling tiles in the bank, and proceeded to wave a gun before tying up several employees.  During the attack, he took about $100,000 from the bank.

“I don&t want to kill you or hurt you, I just want the money,” he reportedly told employees.  No one was injured during the robbery.  He then disappeared through the ceiling, according to witness reports.  Police found him stuck in an air duct of a building adjacent to the Bank of America on Sunday morning, and he was apprehended.

After cutting Estell out of the ductwork, police found a loaded semi-automatic weapon on the roof of the building where he was found.  Police believe that it is the same weapon that was used in the robbery.

Estell's criminal record reaches back to 1992, including charges from California.  In 2007, he was charged with carjacking and aggravated kidnapping.  He was sentenced to 5 ½ years in prison.  Also in 2007, he was charged with stealing a car and was sentenced to four years in prison.

Estelle is currently being held at the Metropolitan Correctional Center.  He is due to appear in a U. S. District court where bail may be set.  He faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted of the robbery.

If you or someone you know has been accused of a crime, contact a qualified Chicago criminal defense attorney.  We have offices in Oak Brook, Naperville and Chicago.  Contact us today to ensure that you receive fair representation under the law.