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Do you recognize the ‘Hillbilly Bandit?'

By David Solano
By David Solano

EVERETT, Wash. — KIRO 7 has shown you video of several bank robberies that police say were the work of one man.

Investigators have dubbed him The Hillbilly Bandit, and he’s believed to be linked to as many as five bank robberies since June 27, 2016.

According to police, this man has robbed banks in Federal Way, Puyallup, Tacoma and Lynnwood. His most recent crime took place May 9 at Wells Fargo Bank in Everett.

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That’s when the bank robber demanded money, but investigators said the teller hesitated to hand it over.

“We’re not sure if the hesitation spooked him or what it was, but ultimately he ended up walking out without any money,” said Aaron Snell, a public information officer at the Everett Police Department.

“In several of these locations, he has received money. Due to the ongoing investigations, we’re not providing the amounts at this time.”

Though the man failed at robbing the bank in that case, he is also wanted in the following robberies:

  • 4/04/17 Banner Bank (18415 33rd Ave W - Lynnwood, WA)
  • 9/16/16 Sound Credit Union (1802 N Pearl St - Tacoma, WA)
  • 7/25/16 Red Canoe Credit Union (601 39th Ave SE - Puyallup, WA)
  • 6/27/16 Red Canoe Credit Union (33616 Pacific Hwy S - Federal Way, WA)

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The Hillbilly Bandit likes to dress up in different outfits to hide his identity.

“I’m not sure how the name came up. It is somewhat creative,” Snell said. “I think it’s probably because the various hats and costumes he likes to wear.”

The Everett Police Department told KIRO 7 that The Hillbilly Bandit walks into banks and hands the teller a note asking for money. But according to police, he’s not carrying a weapon.

And investigators believe with the public’s help, it’s only a matter of time until he’s caught.

“We’re looking for you [so] go ahead and turn yourself in,” Snell said. “Otherwise, someone else is going to do that for you.”

Anyone who recognizes the man or has information about the robberies is asked to call the Everett Police Department tip line at 425-257-8450 or Crime Stoppers of Puget Sound at 1-800-222-TIPS.

Police released surveillance video and photos of the robber:

Cox Media Group

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