Home Los Angeles Press Releases 2011 Law Enforcement Seeks Help in Identifying the “Cooler Bandit,” Linked to Seven Bank Robberies
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Law Enforcement Seeks Help in Identifying the “Cooler Bandit,” Linked to Seven Bank Robberies

FBI Los Angeles February 11, 2011
  • Public Affairs Specialist Laura Eimiller (310) 996-3343

The FBI and several law enforcement agencies are seeking the public’s assistance by asking for information leading to the identity of an unknown male bank robber believed to be responsible for seven bank robberies since August 2009 in Southern California. The bandit is described as a Hispanic or bi-racial male between the ages of 16 and 25; 5’5” - 6’0” in height; between 110-155 lbs.; thin build, with black hair and brown eyes.

During the robberies, the Cooler Bandit enters the bank and approaches the teller with a note demanding money. The Cooler Bandit usually leaves on foot, but was once seen in a stolen 1991 white, four-door Toyota Camry.

The suspect is known to law enforcement as the Cooler Bandit due to the fact that he has been seen carrying a nylon-type cooler/lunch bag and water bottle during some of the robberies. The suspect, as can be seen in bank surveillance photographs being released to the media, has alternately worn sunglasses with orange lenses and clear glasses with a black outer rim. Although no weapon has been seen during the robberies, the suspect has threatened to kill victims who do not comply with his demands.

Currently, the Cooler Bandit is highlighted on the FBI’s local bank robbery website as one of two most active bank robbers in the region at: http://www.labankrobbers.org

Additional photos can be viewed at this link:

http://www.labankrobbers.org/images/Serial_Bandit_Photos/the_cooler_bandit_01.jpg

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

8/28/2009 CITY NATIONAL BANK EL SEGUNDO
2/10/2010 WACHOVIA BANK SAN GABRIEL
2/16/2010 BANK OF AMERICA HEMET
11/2/2010 BANK OF AMERICA MARINA DEL REY
12/6/2010 CHASE BANK HACIENDA HTS.
1/14/2011 WELLS FARGO GLENDALE
1/15/2011 U.S. BANK LONGBEACH

Anyone with information as to the identity or whereabouts of the Cooler Bandit is urged to contact the FBI or dial 911 immediately. In Los Angeles, the FBI can be reached 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 888-CANT-HIDE (888-226-8443).

Please visit www.labankrobbers.org for additional information about bank robbery suspects in the greater Los Angeles area.

Los Angeles Division Cooler Bandit (2/11/11)