Arrest Made in Astorian Bank Robbery

Jack Palmer Van Eaton, Jr., also known as Jack Paul Van Eaton, Jr. was arrested in Lincoln County on February 26, 2011 at approximately 0230 based on his indictment by a federal grand jury for the April 22, 2008, robbery of Sterling Savings Bank in Astoria, Oregon. Investigative agencies are the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Astoria Police Department, and the Oregon State Police Forensic Laboratory.
On April 22, 2008 the Sterling Bank at 303 11th Street in Astoria, was robbed by a suspect who handed the teller a note. The suspect did not display a weapon, but implied by his actions that he was armed. After obtaining the money, the suspect was last seen on foot in the downtown area.
Sergeant Eric Halverson and Detective Andrew Randall from the Astoria Police Department have continued to actively investigate this crime since the robbery occurred. Information from the investigation led to the identity of Van Eaton.
Van Eaton is a white male, age 63, born in Coos Bay, Oregon. In the past he has resided in Oregon coastal towns, as well as in Polk County and Portland. Until his arrest Van Eaton was a fugitive whose whereabouts were unknown. He was considered armed and dangerous.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen F. Peifer.