Investigators say the bandit has been linked to at least seven bank robberies in the past three months. All of the robberies have occurred in Orange County or in the Inland Empire.
Law enforcement began using title "Desperate Bandit" after the unidentified male conducted multiple robberies wearing different disguises such as wigs, mustaches, and eyeglasses.
The following is a list of banks linked to the Desperate Bandit:- 8/8/12 US Bank 12801 Central Avenue, Chino
- 8/14/12 Bank of the West 3012 Yorba Linda, Fullerton
- 9/5/12 US Bank, 3800 East La Palma, Anaheim
- 9/14/12 Bank of the West 701 East 1rst Street, Tustin
- 9/14/12 Bank of America 2601 Green River, Corona
- 9/28/12 US Bank 201 East Yorba Linda, Placentia
- 10/5/12 Bank of the West 1330 South Beach Boulevard, La Habra
During the robberies linked to this bandit, witnesses have indicated that a male entered the bank alone and asked to cash a company check. The bandit made verbal demands for cash and presented a typed demand note that threatened gunfire.
The bandit has been described as having fled the bank in a four-door white Toyota Corolla with a factory spoiler.
Witnesses describe the suspect as a white male between 40 and 50-years-old and five foot nine inches to six feet tall, approximately 200 pounds with a chubby build. The suspect has also been described to have a combination of brown and gray hair. Investigators say that during the robberies, the bandit typically wears a baseball cap, cargo shorts, and tennis shoes.
Anyone with information about the Desperate Bandit should call FBI at 1-888-CANTHIDE or dial 911.
