‘Midday Bandit’ sought in string of area bank robberies

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Authorities released these surveillance images of a man suspected in eight robberies or attempted robberies at banks in 2014. | FBI

Authorities are searching for the “Midday Bandit,” a man suspected of eight bank robberies or attempted bank robberies in the Chicago area last year.

Authorities gave him that nickname because most of the heists happened between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., according to a statement from the FBI.

The first robbery happened June 10, 2014, at a TCF Bank branch in the 8800 block of South Ridgeland in Oak Lawn, authorities said.

Another robbery, also a TCF Bank branch followed on July 9 at 1952 W. Galena Blvd. in Aurora, police said.

The same man went on to rob four banks in Chicago through the end of 2014, the FBI claims. Those robberies happened:

—Aug. 18 at a TCF Bank at 6107 S. Archer Ave.;

—Sept. 22 at a TCF Bank at 2301 N. Harlem Ave.;

—Nov. 13 at a Plaza Bank at 3555 N. Harlem Ave.; and

—Nov. 14 at a Hoyne Savings Bank at 7001 W. Grand Ave.

Investigators believe he is also responsible for two attempted bank robberies. One happened July 16 at a TCF Bank branch at 507 E. Woodlawn in La Grange Park. A second happened Aug. 28 at a First Midwest Bank branch at 7181 W. Irving Park in Chicago.

No one was hurt in any of the robberies, authorities said.

The suspect is described as a black man in his mid-20s, about 5-foot-11 and 160 pounds with facial hair, the FBI said. He has worn glasses and a variety of hats during the robberies.

He is considered armed and dangerous. Anyone who recognizes him, or has information on his whereabouts, should call local police or the FBI at (312) 421-6700.

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