Stretch bandit robs banks in Rowland and Hacienda Heights

A bank robbery in Rowland Heights was the work of a serial robber connected to two other crimes dating back to July of last year, authorities said. The “Stretch Bandit” paid a visit to the Bank of the West, 19005 E. Colima Road, about 10:30 a.m. on Jan. 11, according to FBI spokeswoman Laura Eimiller.

It was his second robbery at the same bank, which he also robbed on July 12 of last year, officials said. The same man is also suspected in a July 6, 2011 robbery at a U.S. Bank Branch on Hacienda Boulevard in Hacienda Heights, Eimiller said.

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The FBI calls him the “Stretch Bandit” because of his physical description, FBI officials said. He stands about 6 feet 3 inches tall and is of thin build — about 190 pounds. The bandit is 35 to 42 years old, and a white, 4-door Honda Accord with a tinted rear window and the first two license plate numbers of “3Z” has been spotted in connection with the crimes.

Sheriff’s officials further described him as having blonde hair and blue eyes. The robbers passes tellers notes demanding cash and claiming that he has a gun, FBI officials said, though no weapons have been seen during the robberies.

Anyone with information is asked to call the FBI’s 24-hour line in Los Angeles at 310-477-6565.

PHOTOS courtesy of the FBI

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