It’s been called the most spectacular bank robbery in American history, and now the story behind California’s most unbelievable bank heist is told in a new podcast series.
Norco ’80, hosted by award winning producer Antonia Cereijido, tells the true story about God, guns, survivalism and the bank robbery that changed policing in America forever.
The robbery happened in May 1980 when the streets of Norco, California were turned into an all-out warzone as five heavily armed and ill-prepared men acting under the influence of religious fanaticism carried out the heist that quickly spiralled out of control, leading to one of the most unbelievable and violent events in law enforcement history.
In the 10-part series there are new and extensive interviews with central figures in the robbery, including the ringleader of the group, law enforcement and others involved on the day.
Using eyewitness testimony, never-before-heard archival tape from police radio traffic and confession room recordings, Norco ‘80 retraces the story from the 1970s to the present day. The events of this one tragic day resulted in a new conversation around end of the world paranoia, survivalism, faith mental health, the evolving role of police, and what constitutes public safety, which remains relevant today.
Norco ’80 is made by LAist Studios, Southern California Public Radio’s (SCPR) podcast development and production studio. Herb Scannell, President and Chief Executive Officer of SCPR says: “The events of the Norco bank robbery are rich with complexity bringing together God, guns, economic hard times, and police caught off guard that as a result sparked the militarization of policing that lives large today in cities big and small.
“It’s a story little known but 40 years later, listeners will be surprised to find how much it resonates today.
“As a host, Antonia serves as an insightful tour guide as we go back to understand the vast and lasting impact that was left behind following this captivating heist in Southern California’s Inland Empire.”
The first two episodes of the 10-part series Norco ‘80 will be available on 11 January, with subsequent episodes released weekly on Mondays.
