FBI seeks help in identifying ‘Valley Bandit’ bank robber
The FBI is asking the public’s help in identifying a bank robber dubbed the Valley Bandit who has struck eight banks in the San Fernando Valley over the past year.
Since last December, he’s robbed Bank of America, Chase and Wells Fargo branches in cities across the San Fernando Valley, including Northridge, North Hills, Van Nuys and Sherman Oaks.
The most recent robbery took place on Wednesday at a Wells Fargo in West Hills.
Federal officials on Friday released photographs of the accused robber in an effort to identify him.
Officials say the bandit enters the bank and says he wants to make a withdrawal before brandishing a weapon and demanding cash.
The Valley Bandit is described as a Latino or Middle Eastern man with dark, unshaven facial hair. He stands 5 feet 9 inches to 6 feet tall, weighs 180 to 200 pounds and is between 25 to 35 years old, according to the FBI.
Authorities say the man has been seen in multiple vehicles, including a white Mercedes Benz SUV and a black Mercedes sedan. They believe he may be working with a getaway driver.
Anyone with information about the suspect is asked to call the FBI’s Los Angeles Division at (310) 477-6565, the Los Angeles Police Department at (877) 275-5273 or dial 911. Anonymous tips can be made to Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477 or by texting: crimes.
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