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Karen Scullin ReportingCaleb Kreitzer, Robbery Victim: “It wasn't scary until I saw the gun, of course. And so I became a little worried."
Police say a serial armed robber is now in custody after targeting stores and hotels all around the downtown area. This afternoon police have been showing a photo of the suspect to various victims around the downtown area. Police say they have enough now to pin at least seven robberies on Daniel Blaisdell.
Police say the man used the barrel of a gun to terrify and rob victims in the downtown area. Caleb Kreitzer was on duty at the Shilo Inn when he came face to face with the robbery suspect Friday night.
Caleb Kreitzer, Front Desk Agent: “Then I ask him ya know, can I help you sir? He slips me a little note, hand me all your twenties, tens, and everything in your cash drawer. And I look up like he was joking."
But it was no joke. Daniel Blaisdell allegedly used the same method in every one of his robberies, the gun showing just enough to make sure his demand included a very clear threat.
Caleb Kreitzer: “That's when I saw the gun. It was wrapped in a plastic grocery bag, a white one. And so I didn't have any questions. I just handed him the money."
At least seven robberies are being blamed on Blaisdell: The Shilo, The Crystal Inn, shops at the Gateway, and other retail stores downtown. It's very possible the suspect could be connected to other unsolved robberies around the Salt Lake Valley.
Dwayne Baird, Salt Lake City Police Dept.: “We considered him extremely dangerous because of the fact that he would show a weapon. Various times of the day or night that he would rob places, he was very brazen about what he wanted to do. And his conduct was just unpredictable."
No one was hurt during any of the robberies. Blaisdell was surprised by police and arrested Sunday morning.
