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'Polite Robber' caught on camera



An armed robber in the US has been arrested after what has been described as one of the politest cases of theft ever caught on camera. Entering a Shell petrol station in White Centre, Seattle, Washington, Gregory Hess bought a cup of coffee and then calmly asked the man behind the counter to empty the cash register.

Asking station owner John Henry to do him "a favour", Hess, 65, then said: "Can you empty that till for me, please? Put it right there". Confused, Henry asked what Hess meant, only for the thief to repeat: "Put it right there," adding: "I’m robbing you".

Despite carrying a handgun, Henry insists that Hess remained as polite as possible throughout, even apologising profusely as he handed over $300.
"Thank you very much, I really appreciate it. And I'm sorry. And if I ever get back on my feet again, sir, I'll bring it back."



'Polite robber' Gregory Hess talking to John Henry during the hold-up
As the robbery continued, Hess can be heard saying: "I’m really sorry to do this, but I’ve got kids." Henry offered him an alternative, suggesting he take US$40 instead to help him out.

The robber declined the offer, though, saying: "Well, I can’t do that sir. I’ve got rent to pay. I’ve got bills, and the kids need to eat." Before leaving, Hess bade farewell with a promise: "Thank you very much, I really appreciate it. And I'm sorry."

"And if I ever get back on my feet again, sir, I'll bring it back." The robbery occurred on Saturday morning, with Hess being arrested on Monday after the CCTV footage became a YouTube hit and helped police identify him.

The King County Sheriff’s office has since confirmed that Hess has a history of criminal activity, having been convicted of armed robbery and forgery in the past.

Police said Hess would be charged with one count of armed robbery.