Tiger Bandit sought in bank heists

CERRITOS - Local law enforcement are on the hunt for the so-called Tiger Bandit, who has been linked to six bank robberies in one week, including an alleged heist at a Cerritos bank.The Tiger Bandit is suspected of robbing a Cerritos bank on Nov. 23. He is suspected of following that up by holding banks in Long Beach and Marina del Rey on Nov. 24, Santa Monica on Nov. 27, Huntington Beach on Nov. 29 and Lomita on Nov. 30. During the robberies, the suspect wears a Detroit Tigers baseball cap (hence the Tiger Bandit nickname) and demands cash in various denominations. Authorities believe he may be working with a second person and enter the banks separately, based on "the method of operation and similar clothing worn," authorities said. Multiple agencies are working to identify the Tiger Bandit, including the Long Beach Police Department, Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, Huntington Beach Police Department, Santa Monica Police, and the LAPD and FBI. Anyone with information on the Tiger Bandit's identity or whereabouts is urged to call (888) CANT-HIDE or dial 911.

********** Published: December 6, 2012 - Volume 11 - Issue 34