Spokane SWAT standoff leads to arrest of accused serial bank robber

FUGITIVE CAPTURED August 18, 2013 -- The Spokane Police Department says robbery suspect, Scott Ruziecki, is in custody after a short SWAT standoff near the 600 block of South Arthur St. On Monday evening, Spokane police say its Patrol Anti Crime Team developed information that Ruziecki was inside a residence at 600 S Arthur. They attempted to make contact with him, but he initially refused to exit the residence. SWAT officers and Hostage Negotiators were called to the scene, due to information gathered last week, which indicated Ruzieke was armed and would shoot any law enforcement officer if confronted. Ruzieke later exited the residence without incident around 9:45pm. Detectives executed search warrants for the residence in relation to the 3 robberies of local banks.

WANTED IN SPOKANE COUNTY August 16, 2013 -- Spokane County Major Crimes Detectives have active arrest warrants for 41-year-old Scott Ruziecki for the robberies at the Banner Bank branch in Safeway in Hillyard on August 9, 2013, and the U.S. Bank branch on Argonne and Trent on August 13, 2013.  Today there was another robbery shortly after 10:00 a.m. at the Banner Bank branch at Mission and Hamilton.  There is probable cause for the arrest of Ruziecki for this robbery as well. Through this investigation, investigators have learned Ruziecki is armed with a handgun and has made threats to shoot any law enforcement if confronted. Sheriff Knezovich has issued a public safety warning to the community with regard to Ruziecki.  Due to the fact Ruziecki stated he will shoot any law enforcement if confronted, and with information he is armed, Sheriff Knezovich strongly advises citizens to immediately call 911 if they see him and by no means attempt to make contact. If you know where he is, call 911 or  Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS to get the reward.