UPDATE: Man in custody after downtown Michigan City bank robbery

Lauren Cross

MICHIGAN CITY — A 31-year-old accused of robbing Main Horizon Bank on Wednesday morning is now in custody, according to a news release from the Michigan City Police Department.

James L. Jones Jr., of Michigan City, was arrested after a brief foot chase near his home Wednesday, according to police.

Police were called to the bank, 515 Franklin St., for a report of a robbery at 9:07 a.m. There, police learned a man, who had yet to be identified, walked into the bank, approached a teller and presented a note demanding money.

No weapon was displayed, but money was turned over and Jones allegedly left on foot.

Evidence gathered at the scene allowed police to identify a suspect, according to the release, prompting officers to conduct surveillance of Jones' home.

"Several hours later the suspect was observed leaving the home and a short foot pursuit was started with the suspect being caught. Upon the apprehension, the suspect had evidence of the robbery on his person," the release stated.

A hearing to establish formal charges against Jones will be scheduled in the near future.

Earlier in the day, Vic Althoff, 60, of Michigan City, was among a steady stream of customers walking up to the bank to find the doors locked and a note posted that it was closed for the remainder of the day.

Beverly Owens, of Michigan City, said what she found surprising was that a bank without quick access to a major interstate was chosen for a robbery.

"In the middle of town, it kind of shocks me," she said.

This was written by a reporter? Don't you need to be able to communicate in English to be a reporter? Is there a bank called "Main Horizon Bank" in Michigan City? Dreadful English.