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OC Man Attempts To Rob Bank For Shelter, Meds In Jail

WESTMINSTER (AP) — A homeless man who tried to stick up a Southern California bank is getting what he really came for — not money, but a place to stay.

Authorities say James Lannon told officers who arrested him at a Wells Fargo bank in Westminster on Tuesday that he was homeless and seeking shelter. He added that he also needed heart medication he could no longer afford, and figured if he was in jail they'd provide it for him.

The events leading to his arrest began Tuesday morning when authorities say Lannon, 55, walked into the bank and handed a teller a robbery note.

"The teller turned around and said, 'We're being robbed,'" FBI agent Chris Gicking told City News Service.

As people ducked for cover, Lannon walked to the lobby, sat down and waited for police to arrive.

He remained jailed Wednesday on $100,000 bail.

It couldn't be determined if he'd gotten his medication, and police didn't respond to a message for comment.

(© Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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