FBI Seeks Public’s Assistance in Identifying ‘Dynomite’ Bandit

PHOENIX, AZ—Phoenix FBI Special Agent in Charge James L. Turgal, Jr. announced the FBI’s Bank Robbery Task Force is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a bank robbery suspect dubbed the “Dynomite” Bandit.

The crimes are being perpetrated by a white male that may be working with an accomplice. Typically, the modus operandi for the suspect is to gain entry to the banking institution after normal business hours through a hole cut in the roof. The suspect then places a device believed to be an explosive inside the bank and exits undetected. The following morning when the bank opens, the suspect calls the bank and makes a demand for money and threatens to blow up the bank if his demands are not met.

The first incident occurred in Peoria on July 3, 2012, at the Chase Bank located at 28523 N. El Mirage Road; the second incident occurred in Maricopa County on December 21, 2012, at the Wells Fargo Bank located at 39422 N. Daisy Mountain; and the last incident occurred on January 2, 2013, at the Chase Bank located at 10011 E. Dynamite in Scottsdale.

There is a strong possibility that this current series may be related to another robbery series dubbed “Thou Shalt Not Steal.” Currently, there is a $15,000 reward being offered for information leading to an arrest.

The FBI Bank Robbery Task Force (BRTF) is comprised of the Phoenix Police Department, Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, and the Mesa Police Department. The BRTF is coordinating its investigation with the Peoria Police Department and the Scottsdale Police Department.

Anyone with information regarding the identity of the Dynomite Bandit, please contact the FBI at (623) 466-1366 or online at www.BanditTrackerArizona.com.

A photo and sketch of the suspect follow.