An Orange County man has been indicted after allegedly committing a bank robbery and taking hostages in Anaheim, just one-day post-release from state prison. Eric Walter Gray, 53, is facing charges of bank robbery and forced accompaniment. Gray has been in federal custody since June 5, transferred from state custody, with a federal magistrate judge ordering him detained without bond. The U.S. Attorney's Office reported that his arraignment is set for June 24 in United States District Court in Santa Ana.
United States Attorney Martin Estrada expressed concerns about the pattern of behavior, commenting, "One day after his release from prison, this defendant allegedly chose to return to crime by taking three victims hostage while he robbed a bank." Estrada's office is set to "continue its efforts to prosecute and punish violent recidivist criminals who harm our community". Gray's actions may indeed fall under a broader attempt to aggressively track down and prosecute individuals responsible for significant violent crimes in the community, as part of Operation Safe Cities.
The robbery, taking place on May 8, involved Gray jumping over the teller counter, claiming to have a gun, and demanding cash. Court documents obtained by the Office of the U.S. Attorney reveal that he confined the bank manager and two employees in a storage room, with the manager being held hostage for about an hour. An employee managed to alert law enforcement which led to Gray's arrest. Court papers further allege the discovery of both cash and narcotics concealed within Gray's body, and his subsequent confrontational behavior which resulted in injuries to police officers at a hospital.
Krysti Hawkins, the Acting Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office, highlighted the trauma experienced by the victims: "The victims in this case dealt with fear and death threats while the defendant held them hostage until they were rescued, thanks to the courage of bank employees who notified police." All parties involved, from local to federal law enforcement and prosecutors, are reportedly working together to hold Gray accountable. If convicted, Gray might to face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to 20 years in a federal facility for his alleged actions.
Anaheim Police Chief Rick P. Armendariz praised the response of his officers, stating, "I am incredibly proud of the professionalism, restraint, and compassion of our Officers as they risked their lives to bring this volatile incident to a safe resolution." The previous case held by the Orange County District Attorney’s Office was dismissed in favor of the ongoing federal prosecution.
The investigation into this incident is currently led by the FBI in conjunction with the Anaheim Police Department, with Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin J. Campbell proceeding with the prosecution. Those interested in following further developments are encouraged to reach out to Public Information Officer Ciaran McEvoyer for updates.
