On 08/21/04, an armed bank robbery occurred at the Leonardtown branch of the Cedar Point Federal Credit Union. In the days since, suspects and suspect vehicles were developed. Surveillance operations were conducted and information was obtained that enabled detectives to obtain search warrants for locations in St. Mary's and Charles Counties as well as a suspect vehicle.
On 09/09/04 at approximately 0430-0630 hours, search and seizure warrants were executed at a residence in Mechanicsville, a motel in Bel Alton, and a suspect vehicle located and stopped on Route 301 in Charles County. Arrested without incident was Cornelius Leroy Chase, 43, of Mechanicsville. Chase was charged by Detective First Class William Raddatz with Armed Robbery, Theft over $500.00 and False Imprisonment.
As a result of the execution of the warrants, approximately $48,000.00 in United States currency was seized, along with other items of evidence. Additionally, investigation and surveillance revealed Chase has spent approximately another $23,000.00 locally in the last several days.
The investigation remains ongoing.