FBI looking for 'Chedda Bandit' serial bank robber
PHOENIX (KSAZ) - UPDATE: FBI officials announced Friday, June 8, that an arrest has been made. Read more
FBI officials say they are looking for an unknown serial bank robber that they are calling the "Chedda Bandit".
Officials with the FBI believe the suspect is responsible for a number of bank robberies in Phoenix and Peoria, in four incidents from May 22 to June 4.
The first incident, according to the FBI, happened at around 4:49 p.m. on May 22, at a Midfirst Bank on the 17000 block of N. 7th Street in Phoenix. The second incident happened at around 2:01 p.m. on May 24, at a Midfirst Bank on the 7400 block of W. Cactus Road in Peoria. The third incident took place at a Midfirst Bank on the 700 block of E. Thunderbird Road in Phoenix at around 6:51 p.m. on May 31, and the fourth incident happened at a BBVA Compass Bank on the 13000 block of N. 75th Avenue in Peoria, at approximately 4:38 p.m. on June 4.
In all four incidents, FBI officials say the suspect entered the bank, approached a teller, and handed over a robbery demand note, after which the teller provided the money. The suspect, after getting the med, fled from the bank.
The suspect is described by the FBI as a white man from 30 to 40 years old, with a medium build and light complexion, 5'10" to 6' tall, weighing 160 to 170 pounds, with brown hair. The suspect was seen wearing a white fedora-style hat with a black ribbon around it, black sunglasses, a long-sleeved black dress shirt, and blue jeans. The suspect was also seen wearing a black and red hat and a red beanie. Officials said the suspect was also observed moving his right hand.wrist, as if he has a nervous twitch.
The suspect, FBI officials say, should be considered armed and dangerous, and Midfirst Bank is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of those responsible.
Anyone with information should contact their local FBI office, or their nearest American Embassy or Consulate. Information can also be submitted on the FBI website at tips.fbi.gov.