Accused bank robber apologized for heist, police say

Bart Augustus

ROCHESTER - The man who allegedly robbed the Bank of New Hampshire branch on North Main Street last Thursday has apologized for his actions and said he was under the influence of drugs and alcohol at the time of the robbery.

Bart Augustus, 45, of 78 Partridge Green Apartments, was video arraigned on Wednesday at Rochester District Court, where it was learned he had an extensive criminal history covering several states.

Augustus is accused of walking into the bank a week ago wearing a woman's dress and nylons over his head, handing a teller a note demanding cash and fleeing with the loot.

Court records reveal he took about $2,300, money he said he spent mostly on crack cocaine.

On Monday he reportedly left a note at the bank saying he was sorry for his actions and later that morning confessed to his probation officer.

He was arrested on Tuesday and charged with felony robbery. Augustus never showed or indicated he had a weapon during the heist.

Augustus' bail was set at $10,000 cash.

Assistant County Attorney Dorothy Walch told the court Augustus' criminal history includes many convictions and spans several states. Offenses include simple assault, second-degree assault, being a fugitive from justice and being a habitual offender.

A probable cause hearing is set for next month.