In a significant development in the investigation of the Pioneer Savings Bank robbery in Rotterdam, authorities have apprehended two individuals believed to be linked to the incident that occurred on Altamont Avenue on October 27th. The Rotterdam Police Department confirmed the arrests on Sunday, bringing a swift turn to the case that had been actively pursued by local detectives.
The suspects have been identified as James Matzen, 22, residing in Troy, and Lauren Sankowski, 30, from Schenectady. Both are now facing serious felony charges in connection with the bank robbery. Matzen is confronted with a count of First Degree Robbery, classified as a Class B felony, alongside a count of Third Degree Grand Larceny, a Class D felony. Sankowski is charged with Third Degree Robbery, also a Class D felony, and a parallel count of Third Degree Grand Larceny.
Following their arrest, Matzen and Sankowski were arraigned before the Honorable Jason Frament. The court has set a significant bond for Matzen, demanding $100,000 bond or $50,000 cash for his release. Sankowski’s bond was set at a lower but still substantial $20,000 bond or $10,000 cash. Both remain in custody as they have been remanded.
The successful apprehension of these suspects is attributed to the diligent efforts of the Rotterdam detectives, who received valuable assistance from the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and the Colonie Police Department. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies in the region to swiftly address and resolve such serious crimes.
The robbery at the Pioneer Savings Bank on Thursday night prompted an immediate response from the Rotterdam Police. Officers were dispatched to the bank at approximately 6:20 pm following the activation of a hold-up alarm. Upon arrival, it was confirmed that a robbery had indeed taken place.
Initial investigations revealed that a male suspect had entered the bank and presented a handwritten note to a teller. The note menacingly implied that he was armed, although no weapon was visibly brandished. The suspect demanded cash, threatening harm to the teller if the demands were not met. Complying with the threat, the teller handed over an undisclosed sum of money to the robber, who then fled on foot in the direction of Altamont Avenue. Fortunately, no physical injuries were reported in the course of this alarming event.
Law enforcement’s initial description of the suspect was of a white male, estimated to be in his mid-thirties, approximately 5’4” in height, and of a thin build. Notably, he was described as wearing dark-colored makeup around his eyes, along with a dark hooded jacket and dark jeans, seemingly in an attempt to obscure his identity.
As the case progresses through the legal system, authorities are still encouraging anyone who might possess further information related to this Pioneer Bank Rotterdam robbery to come forward and contact the Rotterdam Detectives at 355-7397. The swift arrests mark a positive step in this investigation, but community assistance can often be crucial in ensuring all aspects of such incidents are fully understood and addressed.
