COPS PROBING MODESTO BANK WORKERS FALLING ILL: MODESTO (AP) — Six Modesto bank workers were hospitalized and a criminal investigation launched after a customer dropped off a packet of money wrapped in a paper towel, authorities said.

The Modesto Bee reported Friday that at least three employees broke out in hives and some had trouble breathing and developed blisters and fevers. Hazardous material crews responded Friday afternoon to the Chase Bank branch and administered two showers to the victims, the first with their clothes and the second with them disrobed.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the illnesses and are looking for the customer.

WOMAN WITH CHILDREN ASSAULTED AT MODESTO PARK: MODESTO  (AP) — Modesto police are looking for the suspect in a brazen, daytime sexual assault of a woman with her children at a park.

Lt. Rick Armendariz says the woman was holding her 1-year-old child and had her 8-year-old nearby at Mancini Park on Thursday afternoon when an unidentified man approached her, punched her in the head, pulled her to the ground and sexually assaulted her.

The 1-year-old fell from her arms and suffered minor injuries. Both children were grabbed by a female witness, who ran for help.

The Modesto Bee reports that the victim was taken to a hospital.