(AP) — Police say a South Carolina man robbed a bank of hundreds of dollars by convincing a bank teller that a woman and child would be killed if he didn't pay a ransom to their captor.

Court documents show 55-year-old Chester Wodecki was arrested Tuesday and charged with a federal count of bank robbery the next day.

Police say Wodecki told the teller at First Citizens Bank in Conway that the woman and child were being held hostage at a grocery store. But authorities say the story was a hoax that Wodecki invented because he needed money for rent and other bills.

Police say Wodecki took about $2,400 from the bank.

Officials at the Horry County jail did not know if Wodecki had an attorney, and his home phone number was unlisted.

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What's in store with the weather ... Exploring LI's complex web of transit options ... Out East: Critterville Farm Sanctuary Credit: Newsday

Newsday Investigates: Girl was absent, late in half the school days in months before death ... Families left with uncertainty after Nepal ends flood rescue ... This surprise for a little boy doesn't stink! ... Let's Go: Catskill Mountain Railroad

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