'Cold Hands Bandit,' accomplice sought in 15 bank robberies

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Investigators are seeking the public's help in tracking down a pair of bandits believed responsible for at least 15 bank robberies in the Los Angeles area over the last six months.

One of the two suspects has been dubbed the "Cold Hands Bandit" for his habit of keeping his hands hidden in his sleeves or pockets during the robberies.

Investigators say the two men work in tandem, each approaching different tellers in the same bank at the same time. They pass notes demanding money, claiming to be armed and threatening violence if their demands are not met.

They work calmly and quickly and typically get away with $1,000 to $2,000 in each robbery.

While police say no weapon has been shown during the robberies, the suspects should be considered dangerous.

"They're becoming increasingly aggressive, increasingly brazen," said Lt. Martin Rodriguez of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. "In order to avoid any potential violence we're hoping the community will help us and provide some information that we can utilize to identity and locate these individuals before someone is hurt."

Officials asked anyone with information to call their local sheriff's station or phone an anonymous tip to L.A. Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.