Woman's Bank Robberies Linked to Drug Addiction

Friends of a bank robbery suspect say the recent rash of heists could be linked to drug addiction.

Heather Brown, 34, is accused of robbing the Citizen's Bank in Montville, Connecticut, last Monday when she claimed she had a bomb in her handbag. It's a threat police say she repeated at banks in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and other parts of Connecticut.

Brown is suspected of hitting six banks in six days, all while on probation for another bank robbery three years ago.

An eight-page affidavit details the Montville robbery. A note police say Brown handed the teller reads, "There is a bomb in this bag. Do not alert anyone or we will all die; give me $600.00 cash."

According to the affidavit, Brown was quickly identified from the surveillance photos at the Montville bank. Positive IDs were made by several people, including her mother, her boyfriend, and a former cell mate.

Family members left court without a word. But one friend spoke of his sadness for her situation.

"I known her when she was on the street. I know her habits, I seen her in trouble and I can't help her. I tried," said John Ruley.

Ruley said Brown was addicted to drugs and that her arrest may be the only way she will be able to kick her habit. She has prior convictions for prostitution and drugs charges.

Arrest warrants are expected to be served in the other bank robberies Brown is accused of committing.