FBI searching for ‘Cal Bear Bandit’ bank robber, who has new disguise
The FBI is looking for a man who they say has robbed five banks in Orange County since August.
Dubbed the “Cal Bear Bandit” because he wears a California Republic baseball hat, the man passes a note to bank tellers, demanding cash and threatening to have a weapon, according to the FBI.
But the man recently changed his appearance and now wears gear similar to that of a construction worker, authorities say.
In at least one of the robberies, the man threatened to have an explosive, authorities say. But investigators have not found any evidence of a weapon.
FBI investigators say the man robbed the following locations: Chase Bank on Aug. 20 in San Juan Capistrano; Farmers & Merchants Bank on Sept. 3 in Orange; Bank of America on Sept. 8 in Costa Mesa; U.S. Bank on Oct. 11 in Huntington Beach; and Cathay Bank on Oct. 17 in Orange.
After robbing the banks, he entered a small black vehicle, according to witnesses.
For breaking news in California, follow @VeronicaRochaLA. She can be reached at veronica.rocha@latimes.com.
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