Colorado Robbery Suspect Arrested After Walking Past TV News Crew

A man suspected in a string of robberies in Idaho Springs, Colorado, was taken into custody after TV crews unexpectedly spotted him while filming a story about the crimes. The arrest happened on Friday, September 26, when 42-year-old Richard Applequist casually walked behind a live news segment being recorded.

Suspect Walks Into News Coverage

CBS reporter Justin Adams, who was covering the case, noticed the man crossing the street in the background of his broadcast. “I was kind of more in a sense of disbelief that wait a minute, this is the guy who I’m literally just talking about and described on live TV,” Adams said.

Robbery Suspect Caught on Camera

Applequist, wearing his hood up, appeared unfazed by the cameras pointed in his direction. But his timing proved costly. Members of the CBS crew, along with another news team in the area, quickly called 911 to alert police.

Authorities responded within minutes. “Deputies and Idaho Springs Police quickly responded to the area and were able to locate and arrest Applequist,” the Clear Creek County Sheriff’s Office confirmed.

Investigation Already Underway

Police had already launched an “extensive search” for the suspect following multiple robberies between September 23 and September 25. Applequist had been identified as a person of interest, and officers had been actively searching the area prior to his unexpected appearance.

A sheriff’s office spokesperson described the moment as rare and almost surreal. “It was an amazing situation because suspects are usually never anywhere near the media when they’re reporting,” the spokesperson said.

CBS Colorado

A Bold but Costly Move

While some criminals attempt to flaunt their actions, investigators say most try to stay out of sight. Applequist’s decision to walk directly behind a TV crew reporting on his alleged crimes placed him directly in law enforcement’s view.

Within ten minutes of the sighting, he was arrested and taken into custody for questioning. Authorities have not yet released details about potential charges.