Rip Torn an Alcoholic?

Last Friday, the aging actor Rip Torn made headlines after breaking into a bank with a loaded gun. Despite the intuitive image of a bank robbery, the incident may actual betray Torn's serious drinking problem.

According to Mark E. Macomber, CEO of the bank in question, Torn was found lying on the floor of the bank thinking he was in his own home. Macomber didn't believe Torn wanted to hurt anyone or steal anything, though he recognized the event was a "serious matter."

The night is especially troubling given the actor's series of previous alcohol-related arrests. A video posted by TruTV shows Torn's out-of-control drunken behavior from another occasion.

Though the only damage to the bank was the broken window Torn used to enter the building, he stands charged with first-degree trespassing and third-degree criminal mischief, as well as carrying a loaded firearm without a permit and while intoxicated.

Perhaps Friday night's break-in is evidence of the necessity for an intervention for the actor's dangerous and recurring alcohol abuse.