“Armed Clown” Bandit Sought for One-Man Takeover Bank Robberies in Orange County, California

The Bank Robbery Apprehension Team (BRAT) in Orange County is seeking the public’s assistance in locating the “Armed Clown Bandit,” an unidentified male believed to be responsible for multiple bank robberies in Orange County since last October. During the series of robberies, the Armed Clown Bandit enters the bank, announces his presence to multiple tellers, while brandishing a black semi-automatic weapon. The Armed Clown Bandit is known to make an oral demand for cash in denominations of $50s or $100s.

The Armed Clown Bandit, who was named when witnesses described the robber as having worn a black curly wig and a polka-dot shirt, is further described as an Hispanic or black male with a muscular build, 5’8” – 6’, approximately 180 lbs, possibly in his early 40s. During the robberies, which are listed below, the Armed Clown Bandit has carried a black plastic shopping bag and has worn reading glasses. He is further described by witnesses as well-spoken, in non-accented English, with a low voice. In addition, witnesses have described acne scars on his jawline and a pointy nose.

• 10/04/2008 11:00 a.m. Bank of America 901 S. Brookhurst St., Anaheim
• 10/04/2008 1:30 p.m. Bank of America 401 N. Harbor Blvd, Fullerton
• 11/03/2008 Bank of America 2260 S. Harbor Blvd, Anaheim
• 12/15/2008 Bank of America 11460 Knott Street, Garden Grove

This case is being investigated by the BRAT Task Force, which is made of agents and officers with the FBI and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Bank surveillance photographs, which can be found on next page, are being distributed to press, and the public, via www.labankrobbers.org. Anyone with information as to the identity or whereabouts of the Armed Clown Bandit is urged to contact their local FBI office or police. In Orange County, the FBI can be reached at 714 542-8825, or 24 hours a day at 1 888 CANT HIDE (888 226-8443). A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered by Bank of America in exchange for information leading to the arrest and conviction of this bank robber.