The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Columbus Division of Police announced that they have identified Ikechi W. Emeaghara, 27, as the suspect labeled the Buckeye Bandit in the alleged robbery of up to 30 banks and pharmacies in the Central Ohio area dating back to September 2013. Emeaghara has been charged in a federal criminal complaint with one count of armed bank robbery.

“I want to thank all the officers, detectives, deputies, and special agents who have worked so hard to investigate these robberies,” stated Special Agent in Charge Angela L. Byers of the FBI Cincinnati Field Office. “The relentless efforts of local, county, state, and federal law enforcement officers have led to the suspect being captured and an end to this dangerous crime spree.”

Emeaghara was apprehended by Columbus Division of Police officers on October 21, 2016 after allegedly robbing the KeyBank at 5775 Frantz Road in Columbus, Ohio. Following a brief pursuit by police, he was wounded in a confrontation with officers and transported to the hospital.

The investigation into several of the robberies continues and additional charges are possible.

SAC Byers commended the cooperative investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); Columbus Division of Police; Delaware County Sheriff’s Office; Franklin County Sheriff’s Office; and the FBI Columbus Resident Agency.

A criminal complaint merely contains allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.