AK-47 Bandit Linked to Recent Bank Robbery Near Seattle

The FBI and law enforcement officials spanning three separate regions in the western United States continue to seek public assistance relative to an unidentified armed bank robber now linked to three bank robberies, the most recent of which occurred in the Seattle area on July 6, 2012. Following the initial robbery that occurred in Chino, California, on February 29, 2012, the suspect shot a police officer with the Chino Police Department, seriously wounding him.

In each robbery, the suspect brandishes an AK-47–style assault rifle with a drum magazine. The suspect is seen in bank surveillance video and photographs dressed in tactical gear over a dark-colored, short-sleeved collared shirt and blue pants. He also wears a black full-face ski mask, a blue ballistic vest, and/or a green mesh vest marked “Sheriff.” The suspect is known to law enforcement as the AK-47 Bandit. A reward of up to $20,000 is being offered in exchange for information leading to the arrest of the suspect known as the AK-47 Bandit. Anyone with information as to the identity or whereabouts of the AK-47 Bandit should refrain from approaching the suspect and is urged to contact law enforcement immediately. In Los Angeles, the FBI may be reached 24 hours a day at 888-CANT-HIDE (888-228-8443).

Photos and a description are available at the following link: https://bankrobbers.fbi.gov/robbers-container/2014-09-17.5047873315

A Wanted by the FBI podcast about the robber is available at: http://www.fbi.gov/news/podcasts/wanted/ak-47-bandit-strikes-again/view

In addition, a video of the latest robbery in Washington state (July 6, 2012) has been posted at the following link by the King County Sheriff’s Office: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&list=ULxsD5dfozWsM&v=xsD5dfozWsM

The point of contact at the King County Sheriff’s Office is PIO Sergeant Cindi West, who is available at 206-255-0778.