DNA helps nab Smithfield bank robber

SMITHFIELD, Va. (WAVY) - After more than two months on the lam, police have captured a man they say took part in a Smithfield bank robbery.

Lt. Patrick Valdez with the Smithfiled Police Department said officers arrested Clarence Edwards Thursday in connection to the robbery. Valdez added DNA evidence left behind linked Edwards to the scene.

On March 23, three masked men entered the Farmer's Bank, located along Church Street, just before 10:45 a.m. and demanded everyone get on the floor.

Valdez said once the customers were down, one of the suspects jumped a counter to remove money from the teller's drawers.

The three left the bank in a white 2006 Honda Accord, heading eastbound on Battery Park Road. Police told WAVY.com the vehicle used in the crime was stolen from Newport News on March 12.

No one was injured and the bank offered a $25,000 reward for anyone with information leading to an arrest.

Edwards is being held at the Western Tidewater Regional Jail on no bond.

If you have information that can help police in regards to the other suspects, call the Smithfield Police Department at 757-357-3247.