UPDATE 8/19/11:

The bandit has struck two more banks, one in the La Verne area and the other in Pasadena.

By Mary O’KEEFE

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is asking for the public’s help in identifying an active bank robber.

Named the Tri-Cities Bandit by the FBI, the suspect first hit three nearby banks.

The first was a Citibank in Burbank on June 13, the second  a Wells Fargo in Pasadena on July 19, and the third a day later a Wells Fargo in Glendale.

“The TriCities Bandit has hit  three additional cities,” said Laura Eimiller, FBI spokeswoman. Those cities were on Aug. 11 in Tarzana, Aug. 12 in Brentwood and on Monday in Chino Hills.

In each case the bandit entered the bank, approached the teller and demanded bills of large denominations, Eimiller said.

In the recent robberies he has been seen wearing sunglasses.

No one has reported seeing any weapon however that does not mean that he does not have one.

“Anyone who robs this many banks in this short period of time is [more than likely] desperate,” she added.

Even if there is not a weapon seen during robberies, the FBI considers suspects armed and dangerous.

The man is described as a male Hispanic, 30-to-40 years old, 5’5” to 5’8” inches tall, weighing 150 to 160 pounds. He has short dark brown hair and a goatee.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the FBI, Special Agent Nicole Black at (310) 477-6565. If seen do not approach the suspect and when it is safe call 911.

  Mary Okeefe