Press Release

Friday, May 19, 2023

PRESS RELEASE: Arrest Warrant Obtained for Bank Robbery Suspect; Suspect Involved in Other Robberies

On February 25, 2023, at approximately 10:22 a.m., Turlock Police Dispatch received a call of a robbery at PNC Bank, 1955 Geer Road. The suspect was described as a Hispanic male between 40 and 45 years of age, wearing a Jordan brand hooded sweatshirt and black watch cap. The suspect was last seen running from the bank heading westbound on Pedras Road.

Officers responded to the business and were able to locate surveillance footage of the incident. On February 27, 2023, an informational bulletin, which included still images of the robbery suspect wearing the Jordan brand sweatshirt was released.

On February 28, 2023, Turlock Police Officers responded to a call of a suspicious person at the Turlock Poker Room, 2321 West Main Street. The man matched the description of the robbery suspect and was using small denominations of cash for large gaming buy-ins. Officers contacted the male and conducted a field interview, gathering his personal and vehicle information. The male denied being involved in the robbery.

On March 9, 2023, Detectives received surveillance footage from a neighboring business, which is adjacent to PNC Bank. The video showed the responsible vehicle from the day of the robbery, which matched the vehicle associated with the man contacted at the Turlock Poker Room.

“At times it can feel like crime is happening and nothing is being done,” said Chief Jason Hedden. “Our residents and business owners can rest assured, our team is working hard behind the scenes to bring those who commit crime in Turlock to justice, and this is a good example to their tenacity and commitment to solving crime in our community.”

The Turlock Police Crime Analyst and Detectives continued to investigate this case and were able to tie the Turlock robbery suspect to various other bank robberies in the Central Valley. The suspect in the February 25th bank robbery was identified as 40- year-old, Merced resident, Moses Hanaulii Lira. Armed with information provided by Turlock Police Detectives, Lira was arrested and remains in custody at the Sacramento County Jail on robbery charges from an unrelated bank robbery. Lira has a warrant for the Turlock robbery and will be brought back to Stanislaus County to face charges.

Captain Miguel Pacheco said, “Our staff remains committed to solving these types of crimes and holding criminals accountable for their actions. The hard work of our officers and professional staff is an example of their dedication to provide for the safety of our community. I would also like to thank the community members who called in about Lira’s suspicious activity which helped with his identification.”

Turlock Police Department staff ask that anyone with information regarding this investigation to call Detective Kevin Blanc at (209) 668-6540. You can also contact the Turlock Police Department’s Tip Line at (209) 668-5550 extension 6780 or email at tpdtipline@turlock.ca.us.

The Turlock Police Department is an active participant in the Crime Stoppers Program. Callers can leave an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636 and may be eligible for a cash reward.

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