A Charlotte, N.C.-area man who lacked health insurance says he robbed the RBC Bank in Gaston County, N.C., earlier this month so he could obtain health coverage – in prison.

The man, James Verone, 59, walked into the bank and handed the teller a note demanding $1, hoping he would be arrested, according to CBS News.

Verone wanted at three-year sentence so at its end, he would be old enough to collect Social Security benefits.

“If it’s called manipulation, then, out of necessity, because I need medical care, then I guess I am manipulating the courts to get medical care,” he told WCNC.

He was charged with larceny from a person, not the more serious charge of bank robbery. If convicted, he could face up to three years in prison.