FBI Manhunt Underway For 'Traveling Bandit'

AVENTURA, FL — The FBI has launched a manhunt for the so-called "traveling bandit," who began a six-state crime spree at the end of last year and is believed to have struck at least seven banks between sunny South Florida and Snowy Utah in his travels.

"So far, no one has been injured during the robberies," explained Special Agent Michael Leverock and spokesman Jim Marshall of the FBI in Miami.

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"The suspect usually approaches the counter and presents a note demanding money and threatening a weapon, then departing the bank on foot," officials explained.

The bandit's first stop was in the Miami suburb of Aventura on Dec. 28, where he held up a Capital Bank. He struck a Suntrust Bank on Jan. 2 in Asheville, North Carolina, a Mountain Commerce Bank in Johnson City, Tennessee on Jan. 4, a US Bank in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee on Jan. 8, a TrustMark Bank in Prattville, Alabama on Jan. 10, a 5th3rd Bank in Mt. Vernon, Illinois on Jan. 14 and a Wells Fargo Bank in Price Branch, Utah on Jan. 17.

The robberies took place at various times throughout the day between 9:40 a.m. and 4:50 p.m., according to information released by the FBI.

"He may be driving a white Ford Explorer or Expedition," FBI officials added.

The FBI released photographs of the bandit taken from surveillance cameras at various locations. He appears to be wearing the same dark baseball cap in all of the photos.

“FBI agents from multiple field offices along with local law enforcement agencies across the county are involved in the investigation of the traveling bandit,” Marshall told Patch.

The FBI would not say how much money was taken during the robberies. Customers were in at least one of the banks at the time of the incidents.

"Investigators have dubbed him the “traveling bandit” based on the great distances he has covered committing these robberies," added Leverock and Marshall. "They believe the robber may strike again in the near future given his pattern of past robberies."

To report a tip call 754-703-2000. Alternatively, call your local police department or the nearest FBI field office. You can also submit your tip online by clicking here.

Photos courtesy FBI