Attempted Bank Robber Who Left With Coffee Pleads Not Guilty

Editor's Note: In the original version of this story, it was reported the defendant pleaded no contest. The San Mateo County District Attorney's Office has since clarified that the defendant pleaded not guilty. Please direct questions to laura.dudnick@patch.com.

A 35-year-old man who attempted to rob a Chase Bank in San Mateo earlier this month but left with only a cup of coffee has pleaded not guilty to burglary charges.

Prosecutors say Aaron Brandon Justin walked into the bank on Sept. 4 and handed the teller a note that read, "I have a bomb give me the money."

The teller panicked and froze, prosecutors said.

When she unfroze, she pushed the alarm button, but Justin had already walked away, helped himself to a cup of coffee, and strolled out of the bank, according to prosecutors.

He was contacted nearby, and arrested after witnesses identified him as the would-be robber, according to prosecutors.

Justin pleaded not guilty on Friday to charges of second-degree burglary, and a preliminary hearing was set for Sept. 19.

Justin defendant remains in custody in lieu $50,000 bail.