For Immediate Release

Thursday, Feb. 11, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone:  781-533-9398
Email: john@jgpr.net

*Joint Press Release* Methuen Police Arrest Man, Woman Connected to Chelmsford Bank Robbery

METHUEN — Chief Joseph Solomon and Chelmsford Police Chief James Spinney report that the Methuen Police Department arrested a man on Tuesday who is allegedly involved in an attempted convenience store robbery in Methuen and an unarmed robbery in Chelmsford.

On Wednesday, Feb. 3, Methuen Police responded to the Stop Quick convenience store for a report of an armed robbery with a knife. The suspect got into a physical altercation with the store clerk, who refused to give him money. He proceeded to destroy store property before fleeing in a blue SUV.

That same day, the man allegedly robbed a bank in Lawrence, and was seen leaving in blue Toyota RAV4.

Then, on Sunday, Feb. 7, a man  robbed the Citizen’s Bank at the Stop & Shop supermarket. He was again seen leaving in a blue RAV4, driven by a woman.

All three departments applied for warrants for the suspect, who through an investigation, was determined to be JOSHUA PITTOCHELLI, AGE 33, OF METHUEN.

On Feb. 9, the Massachusetts State Police spotted the RAV4 and initiated a pursuit on Interstate 495 that led to Route 213 and ended when PITTOCHELLI pulled into the Methuen police station and surrendered.

Methuen Police had a warrant out for PITTOCHELLI for Armed Assault with Intent to Rob and Malicious Destruction of Property Over $250. The department also had an additional warrant out for his arrest for a shoplifting incident on Feb. 5.

“This arrest closes a detailed investigation for multiple police agencies,” Chief Solomon said. “I applaud the work of all involved and am glad the suspect peacefully surrendered.”

Chelmsford Police charged PITTOCHELLI with Unarmed Bank Robbery.

Also inside the vehicle was BETH GIGUERE, AGE 36, OF LOWELL. Police determined she was the same woman involved in the Chelmsford bank robbery, who had a warrant out for her arrest for Unarmed Bank Robbery.

Both suspects were held at the Methuen Police Department pending their arraignment at Lawrence District Court yesterday.

“This is an example of excellent police work by all three police departments. We have taken two criminals off the streets,” Chief Spinney said. “Thank you to the Methuen Police Department and State Police for working with us on this matter and apprehending the suspects involved.”

These are allegations. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.

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