SALEM, Ore. — A 75-year-old man accused of robbing a bank in downtown Salem last week reportedly asked officers to keep him in custody after his arrest, stating he would reoffend if released.
Richard K. Gorton, a Washington resident with a history of theft and robbery convictions, was arrested on Friday, Sept. 5, shortly after allegedly robbing Willamette Valley Bank at 101 High St. N.E. in Salem.
According to Salem Police, Gorton entered the bank around 1:45 p.m. and handed a teller a note demanding $200. After receiving the money, he exited the building, where an officer who had heard the 911 call spotted him nearby.
When approached, Gorton reportedly laid down on the sidewalk to surrender without incident. Officers say he was cooperative and did not possess a weapon during the robbery.
“He was very polite but said if he was released he would be forced to commit another robbery,” a police affidavit stated.
Gorton is charged with third-degree robbery, a felony under Oregon law. He remains in Marion County custody and is scheduled for a court appearance on Sept. 17.
Court documents revealed Gorton’s lengthy criminal history, including convictions for first-degree theft and second-degree robbery in Whatcom and Cowlitz Counties in Washington. He was most recently released from prison after a 2018 theft conviction.
In previous interactions with law enforcement, Gorton allegedly said he preferred jail over homelessness, choosing incarceration over life on the streets.
Salem police concluded in their affidavit that Gorton is likely to reoffend if released, noting:
“If released, Gorton will commit another robbery.”
