Poodle Bandit" on the Loose in Central Valley

May 5, 2010 - Police and FBI agents are trying to identify a man wanted for robbing at least five banks up and down California’s Central Valley.

He is described as a Hispanic male, approximately 45 - 50 years old, 5' 6" to 5' 7" tall, and weighing between 150 and 180 pounds.

As part of his disguise he wears a fake wig and possibly a fake moustache. The fluffy gray wig depicted in bank surveillance photos led authorities to nickname him the “Poodle Bandit."

Upon reaching the teller counter the suspect displays a small revolver and makes an oral demand for money. He typically uses a dark-colored brief case for his loot.

The spree started two months ago in Tracy with the March 8 robbery of the US Bank, 2175 W. Grant Line Road, and continued with the March 29 robbery of the US Bank, 5000 Laguna Boulevard, Elk Grove; the April 14 robbery of Citibank, 7025 North Marks Avenue, Fresno; the April 28 robbery of Rabobank, 3990 Gosford Road, Bakersfield; and the April 29 robbery of Rabobank, 2190 W. Monte Vista Avenue, Turlock.

Surveillance photos from several of the robberies indicate the suspect usually wears a dark-colored blazer, blue jeans, and black gloves. He also wears glasses.

These robberies are being investigated by the Tracy Police Department, the Elk Grove Police Department, the Fresno Police Department, the Bakersfield Police Department, the Turlock Police Department, and the FBI.

Anyone with information regarding this robbery is asked to contact the FBI in Sacramento at (916) 481-9110. If you wish to remain anonymous you may also call the Sacramento Citizens’ Crime Alert tip line at 1-800-222-7463. Any tip leading to the arrest of the person(s) responsible for these robberies is eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.