Alexander Robert MacDonald was arrested on Monday and extradited to NSW on Tuesday charged with armed robbery and hostage-taking relating to incidents from nearly 30 years ago.
Police allege MacDonald entered a bank on October 28, 1996, in Coonabarabran, west of Tamworth, armed with a shotgun and demanded cash from staff.
He allegedly took a female customer hostage and held her until he reached his motorcycle to ensure his escape.
Three months later, MacDonald allegedly robbed another bank in Laurieton, on the NSW mid-north coast, again armed with a shotgun.
After allegedly directing staff to fill his duffel bag with cash, MacDonald is accused of taking a staff member hostage and escorting her to his getaway car before releasing her.
NSW Police issued arrest warrants for both incidents in 1997.
After being extradited the 76-year-old was driven to Tweed Heads Police Station and charged with two counts of armed robbery and two of detaining for advantage.Â
MacDonald's lawyer Sally McPherson told a bail court on Wednesday the 76-year-old did not want further legal representation.
"Mr MacDonald ... anticipates he will self-represent through these matters," Ms McPherson said.
NSW Police Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Marks told reporters on Wednesday the declining use of cash in society had contributed to fewer bank robberies, but new forms of crime had taken their place.
"As offenders change their techniques, so do the police's to try and identify them," Det Supt Marks said.
MacDonald did not apply for bail and will appear in Port Macquarie Local Court on May 21.
19°C