South Carolina Man with Criminal History Arrested for Westbrook Bank Robbery
WESTBROOK, Maine – A 61-year-old South Carolina man with a lengthy criminal record has been taken into custody in connection with a bank robbery in Westbrook, Maine, police confirmed Thursday.
Authorities identified the suspect as Jean Gendron, who was arrested after stepping off a bus in New Hampshire. Investigators allege Gendron robbed the Chase Bank branch at Rock Row earlier that same morning before fleeing the area.
History of Bank Robberies and Arson
According to police records, Gendron’s criminal past includes two prior bank robbery arrests in North Carolina — one in 2014 and another in 2021. In both cases, he allegedly fled the scene in stolen vehicles.
Records also show a conviction for arson, after he was accused of setting his ex-girlfriend’s house on fire. Law enforcement agencies note his history of violent and property crimes spans multiple states.
Recent Maine Crime Spree Concerns
Gendron’s arrest comes just days after two separate bank robberies in Portland, though police have not confirmed any direct link between those incidents and the Westbrook case.
Authorities also say the region has seen a string of high-profile crimes recently, including car thefts in Scarborough and a shooting incident in Biddeford. Officials are working to determine if any of these cases are connected.
Residents are encouraged to remain aware of suspicious activity and report tips to local law enforcement. Share your thoughts on this case and community safety at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
