By Cathy Locke
clocke@sacbee.com
Police and FBI agents are trying to identify a man, dubbed the "poodle bandit," who has robbed at least five Central California banks, including one in Elk Grove.
The man (left photo) is described as Latino, 45 to 50 years old, between 5 feet 6 inches and 5 feet 7 inches tall, and weighing between 150 and 180 pounds, according to an FBI news release.
As part of his disguise, the man wears a wig and possibly a fake mustache. The fluffy gray wig depicted in bank surveillance photos earned him the "poodle bandit" nickname.
The robbery spree started March 8 at a US Bank in Tracy and continued with the March 29 robbery of a U.S. Bank on Laguna Boulevard in Elk Grove. Since then, robberies have occurred April 14 at a Citibank in Fresno, April 28 at a Rabobank in Bakersfield and April 29 at a Rabobank in Turlock.
Upon reaching the teller counter, the man displays a small revolver and makes an oral demand for money, the news release said. He typically places the money in a dark-colored briefcase.
Surveillance photos from several of the robberies indicate the man usually wears a dark blazer, blue jeans, black gloves and glasses.
Anyone with information about the robberies is asked to call the FBI in Sacramento at (916) 481-9110. People who wish to remain anonymous also may call the Sacramento Citizens' Crime Alert tip line at (800) 222-7463. Any tip leading to the arrest of the person responsible for the robberies is eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.
Call The Bee's Cathy Locke, (916) 321-5287.
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