Crime & Safety

Cops Seek John Gunton in Bank Robbery Attempt

Police officer recognizes man from surveillance images, prosecutor's office says.

Police say they've identified the man who tried to rob a Morristown Saturday John B. Gunton Jr., 61, of Morristown. They're currently working to track down Gunton, and seeking the public's help.

Morristown Police Officer Brian LaBarre recognized Gunton after viewing bank surveillance photos, according to the Morris County Prosecutor's Office. Morristown Police Detective Chris Oakley charged Gunton with one count of second-degree robbery.

Anyone who has information on Gunton's whereabouts can contact Morristown Police Department at (973) 538-2200, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.

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The man who attempted to rob the bank was originally described by police as white, between 55 and 65 years of age, about 5 feet and 7 inches tall, 170 to 180 pounds, with short white hair, and a clean-shaven appearance. He was wearing a jean trucker-style hat with a logo as well as a jean jacket with a yellow stripe down the inseam, both of which were found in a nearby garbage can, the prosecutor's office said. He was also wearing bulky-pocketed blue jeans, the office said.

The man, now believed to be Gunton, entered the bank at about 1:15 p.m, approached a teller and said he was committing a robbery, according to a statement from the prosecutor's office. But Gunton then fled on foot before obtaining any money, the prosecutor's office said.

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No weapon was shown, the prosecutor's office said. It did not specify whether Gunton made any threats or had any interaction with bank customers.

Gunton reportedly left the bank on foot, heading on South Street to Elm Street.


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