FBI Los Angeles
Public Affairs Specialist Laura Eimiller
(310) 996-3343
June 3, 2014

Hypnotist Bandit Suspected in Two Bank Robberies Today, Linked to Third in Pasadena Last Week

A suspect believed to have robbed two banks earlier today in the cities of South El Monte and Temple City has been linked to a third bank robbery in the city of Pasadena last week, according to investigators with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department; the Pasadena Police Department; and the FBI who are working jointly to identify the suspect.

The unidentified male suspect was nicknamed the “Hypnotist Bandit” based on descriptions by victim tellers indicating that the suspect stared at them and continued to make eye contact during the robbery. The suspect also passed a note and, in at least one robbery, threatened a weapon. The robber was seen exiting the bank following the robberies and, in each case, took the note with him.

The suspect is further described as follows:

  • Race: White or Hispanic
  • Height: 6’2” to 6’4”
  • Weight: 190 to 200 pounds
  • Age: Approximately 30 years old
  • Build: Thin
  • Eyes: Dark
  • Hair: Brown
  • Facial hair: Goatee, stubble growth
  • Tattoo seen: Faded red heart with black outline on one hand (possibly older tattoo)

Photos from South El Monte bank robbery:

The Hypnotist Bandit has been linked to the following bank robberies:

  • May 27, 2014: Bank of the West 2500 East Colorado Blvd. Pasadena
  • June 3, 2014: HSBC Bank 9601 Las Tunas Drive Temple City
  • June 3, 2014: Bank of the West 2041 Durfee Avenue South El Monte

Anyone with information about the identity or whereabouts of the suspect is urged to contact their nearest FBI office or dial 911.

Additional information about bank robbers currently wanted by the FBI’s Los Angeles Division and its law enforcement partners can be found at www.labankrobbers.org.