Information Sought: Serial Bank Robber Sought
From the
Files of . . .		 Polk County Crime Stoppers
Polk County Sheriff’s Office robbery detectives are seeking the public's help in finding a serial bank robber known in the Central Florida area as the "Beer Belly Bandit".  The suspect is believed to be responsible for at least 19 bank robberies in Central Florida since February 2001, including the First Union bank in Lakeland on May 17, 2002 (See Crimestoppers bulletin dated 5/17/01 on website www.polksheriff.org). 

(click on picture to see enlarged image)

The suspect seen here, is described as a  Hispanic male, 35-40 years old, approximately 5'7" and 170 pounds.  He was last seen with black straight hair that is pushed down in the front that may appear to be a wig, a large black mustache that may appear to be fake, glasses, and a small Band-Aid on the left cheek.  The suspect may be driving a gray 4-door 80's model Mercury Sable with tinted windows (see photo on website www.polksheriff.org).  He is believed to have committed bank robberies in Clearwater and Ocala as recently as last month.

If you have any information concerning the whereabouts of this suspect, please contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Robbery Unit at (863) 534-6379.

Anyone with information who wants to remain anonymous and be eligible for a CASH REWARD is asked to call Polk County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-TIPS. Anonymity is Guaranteed!
 

 A reward of up to $1,000 may be awarded for information leading to the arrest or indictment of a suspect or suspects. Anyone with information is asked to contact Polk County Crime Stoppers at
1-800-226-TIPS.
Anonymity is Guaranteed!

February 1, 2001

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