ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — A man who allegedly claimed to be “Jesus Christ” was arrested after attempting to rob a credit union branch and later barricading himself inside the building, according to local media reports.
Nathaniel Way, 26, was taken into custody Feb. 23 following an incident at a U.S. Eagle Federal Credit Union branch in northeast Albuquerque, Albuquerque Raw reported.
Police said the episode began earlier in the day near Coronado Center, where Way allegedly threw rocks at businesses and assaulted a woman in the parking lot, taking her belongings before fleeing the area, according to the report.
Attempted Robbery Alleged
Authorities said Way then entered the credit union on Menaul Boulevard, where he attempted to commit a robbery before retreating into an office and barricading himself, Albuquerque Raw reported. Employees evacuated the building as officers from the Albuquerque Police Department responded, shutting down traffic in the surrounding area while SWAT units secured the scene.
After a brief standoff, officers entered the office and arrested Way without further incident, the report said.
According to Albuquerque Raw, Way behaved erratically while in custody, shouting profanities and spitting at an officer. When asked to identify himself, he allegedly told authorities he was “Jesus Christ.”
Multiple Charges
Way faces multiple charges, including robbery, battery on a peace officer, resisting or obstructing an officer and related offenses, Albuquerque Raw reported. Court records also show he had outstanding warrants tied to prior allegations of criminal damage to property and trespassing, Albuquerque Raw reported.
