New Philadelphia police arrest man after bank break-in

A 20-year-old man was arrested early Tuesday morning following an attempted break-in at a PNC bank located at 245 West High Avenue. The New Philadelphia Police Department responded to an alarm call at approximately 1:07 a.m. after security sensors detected movement in the lobby and teller areas of the bank.

Upon arrival at 1:10 a.m., officers observed a shattered glass panel at the rear door of the bank. A suspect, later identified as Guillermo Sanchez Gomez, was seen inside wearing a hat and face covering but fled from view shortly after. Officers issued verbal commands for him to surrender but received no response. After unlocking the lobby doors, officers made entry and found Gomez, who was taken into custody without incident.

Gomez was found in possession of a hammer, flat-blade screwdriver, a fix blade knife, spoon, and black plastic trash bags. Additional damage was noted to the bank’s digital keypad and vault door. He was charged with breaking and entering, safecracking, possession of criminal tools, and vandalism, and is currently being held at the Tuscarawas County Jail.

The New Philadelphia Police Department was assisted at the scene by the Dover Police Department. Chief of Police Tessa J. Pohovey thanked the Dover department for their swift response. The investigation is ongoing.