Central Coast Bandit Linked to Additional Bank Robbery, Brings Total to Five Robberies and One Casing in Multiple Jurisdictions
| FBI Los Angeles July 19, 2013 |
An unidentified female bank robber has been linked to at least five bank robberies and one bank casing along California’s central coast and cities north, including one late Thursday afternoon in Modesto, California.
The FBI and law enforcement in San Luis Obispo, Monterey, and Stanislaus Counties conducting a joint investigation are seeking information leading to the suspect’s identity. The suspect is known as the Central Coast Bandit, based on the general area in which she began robbing in December 2012.
During yesterday’s robbery at a Farmers Merchants Bank in the city of Modesto, the suspect entered the bank and, according to the victim teller, requested coin wrappers before presenting a note demanding cash. The suspect was wearing a horizontally-striped gray T-shirt with blue jeans and a gra and black headscarf, and she was carrying a black bag.
During the robberies, the suspect has been seen in bank surveillance photos wearing eyeglasses, a variety of hats, and casual clothing. In some of the robberies, the suspect has indicated she may be working with other individuals located outside of the bank. No other suspects have been described by witnesses at this time.
The Central Coast Bandit is further described as an Hispanic or white female with dark hair, between 5’5”-5’6” tall, 150-160 lbs., and between 35-45 years old. The suspect has been seen carrying a pistol during some of the robberies, and, according to witness accounts, has been seen leaving bank robberies in what has been described as either a gray sedan or gold-colored SUV.
Photos of the suspect:
The Central Coast Bandit has been linked to the following bank robberies/casing:
| Date | Bank | Address | City | County |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2012 | Monterey Credit Union | 161 Fountain St. | Pacific Grove | Monterey County |
| February 14, 2013 | Pacific Union | 7035 El Camino Real | Atascadero | San Luis Obispo County |
| February 14, 2013 | Chase | 8055 El Camino Real | Atascadero | San Luis Obispo County (casing only) |
| June 27, 2013 | Coast Hills Federal Credit Union | 532 W. Tefft St. | Nipomo | San Luis Obispo County |
| July 16, 2013 | Golden One Federal Credit Union | 128 Niblick St. | Paso Robles | San Luis Obispo County |
| July 18, 2013 | Farmers Merchat | 1700 McHenry Ave. | Modesto | Stanislaus County |
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 can be found at www.labankrobbers.org.
This investigation is being conducted by detectives and officers with the Atascadero Police Department; the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Department; the Paso Robles Police Department; the Pacific Grove Police Department; the Modesto Police Department; and agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Media Contact:
FBI Press Relations: 310 996-3343