UPPER CHICHESTER, PA — Upper Chichester Township police arrested two individuals following an alleged attempted theft involving a fraudulent check at a local bank, an incident authorities say unfolded quickly after employees raised concerns.
According to the Upper Chichester Township Police Department, officers responded on January 27, 2026, at approximately 4:01 p.m. to a report of an attempted theft in progress at the S&T Bank located at 3915 Chichester Avenue. Police allege a woman later identified as Elba Diaz was attempting to cash a fraudulent check when Sergeant Jason Yaletchko arrived on scene.
Police said Diaz was detained inside the bank, where investigators allegedly discovered a counterfeit Pennsylvania driver’s license. Further investigation revealed her true identity through a New York state-issued identification card. Diaz was transported to police headquarters, where her identity was confirmed through fingerprinting.
While the investigation continued, Officer Christopher Douglass located a black Kia Sorento with New York registration believed to be connected to the incident. Police allege a man identified as Jashawn Noel David Martin was found near the vehicle and claimed he had traveled from New York to meet a friend. Officers reported that Martin’s statements were inconsistent, and he was taken into custody after bank brochures from S&T Bank were allegedly found inside the vehicle.
At police headquarters, investigators allege Martin’s connection to Diaz was confirmed when Diaz reacted to hearing his voice and referred to him by name.
Police said the investigation remains open as detectives work to determine whether additional victims or related incidents may be connected to the alleged scheme.
All charges and allegations referenced are accusations only. Any suspect, arrestee, or defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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