Law Enforcement Seeks “Explosives Threat” Bandit in Connection with Two Recent Bank Robberies Where Device Was Left Behind

Law enforcement in Los Angeles County is seeking the public’s assistance in order to identify and determine the whereabouts of a bank robber believed to be responsible for recent bank robberies in the cities of West Covina and West Hollywood where a device resembling an improvised explosive device was left behind.

The suspect was described by witnesses as a white male, between 35-45 in age; between 5’10” and 6” in height; and between 175-190 lbs.

During each robbery, the suspect left a device made up of electronic components and various wiring. The suspect stated that someone outside the bank would detonate the device, indicating the device involved explosives. During the West Covina robbery, the suspect stated, “I have a bomb.” After each robbery, a bomb squad from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department responded to the bank to render the device safe.

In both robberies, the suspect made an oral demand, and also handed a written note to the teller. The suspect demanded as much as $20,000 in cash. The notes indicated the suspect had a friend outside the bank monitoring a police frequency and that he would make a call to advise the friend to “press a button.” One note indicated that once the friend was contacted, the “establishment will not exist.”

During the West Covina robbery, the suspect can be seen in bank surveillance photographs wearing a suit and tie. During the West Covina robbery, the suspect is wearing casual clothing, including a black pullover-style sweatshirt.

The Explosives Threat Bandit has been linked to the following robberies:

11/15/2011 Bank of America, 2901 Eastland Center Dr., West Covina

11/28/2011 Bank of America, 8655 Beverly Blvd, West Hollywood

Bank surveillance photographs are being released publicly in order to identify the suspect. Anyone with information as to the identity or the whereabouts of the Explosives Threat Bandit is urged to contact the FBI or dial 911. In Los Angeles, the FBI can be reached 24 hours a day at 1888 CANT HIDE (888 226-8443).

This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the West Covina Police Department.