A Bank teller from Seattle loses his job when he chases a Bank robber out of the bank. Jim Nicholson, 30, who had worked for more than two years at a Key Bank branch near the Seattle Center, says he understands the bank's strict policy that employees comply with robbery demands and avoid confrontations
The man wearing a beanie reportedly approached the counter where Nicholson was and demanded for money.
Nicholson threw the bag on the floor and lunged the man and then demanded to see a weapon, the man ran as fast as he could w/ Nicholson in pursuit.
The chase went several blocks until finally knocking out the man on the ground with a help of a passer-by. Nicholson held the man until the police arrived.
On Thursday, Nicholson was fired at his work place with the bank declining to comment on Nicholson's actions.
Police and the FBI discourage such heroics. Bank tellers are trained to get robbers out the door quickly and are advised against possibly escalating a situation over money that's federally insured.
Nicholson said he understands why he was fired.
"They tell us that we're just supposed to comply, but my instincts kicked in and I did what's best to stop the guy," he said. "I thought if I let him go he would rob more banks and cause more problems."
Seattle police Sgt. Sean Whitcomb said the best course for citizens is to be good witnesses to crimes.
The would-be robber, a 29-year-old transient, has a lengthy criminal history, including convictions for theft and robbery, according to court records. Charges in the attempted robbery were not immediately filed.
Nicholson said he has run after shoplifters while working at other retail jobs.
"It's something I almost look forward to. It's a thrill and I'm an adrenaline-junkie person. It's the pursuit," he said.
* photo source: www.worldofstock.com
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