According to a statement released by Hillside Police officials, at approximately 2:12 PM today, Hillside police detectives arrested Mr. Jihad A. Wright, 28, of Elizabeth in connection with Wednesday's bank robbery.
Officials say he was arrested in the City of Elizabeth without incident.
Police charged Wright with first-degree robbery and first-degree kidnapping.
The kidnapping charge results from Wright detaining a bank teller during the robbery to try to take possession of his vehicle; likely to flee the scene of the incident according to officials.
Additional charges may be considered as well. Wright may also face federal charges filed by the FBI.
Wright is detained at Hillside Police Headquarters pending a bail decision and transport to the Union County Jail.
Chief Vincent Ricciardi commended his officer's performance in the initial handling of the incident as well as the investigative personnel who contributed to Wright's apprehension.
"We take the safety and protection of our community very seriously in Hillside. Our officers and detectives maintain a high level of proficiency and professionalism in carrying out their law enforcement duties.
The swift and safe resolution to this case is a testament to those qualities."