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FBI searching for "Fashion Forward Bandit" suspected in several Valley robberies

"Fashion Forward Bandit" sought in robberies
Posted at 6:50 AM, Oct 18, 2017
and last updated 2017-10-18 20:46:11-04

The FBI is asking for the public's help in identifying the "Fashion Forward Bandit" who is suspected of several Valley robberies.

Authorities say the "Fashion Forward Bandit" earned his nickname because of the clothes and disguises he has worn throughout his armed robberies.

The FBI says the suspect is wanted for nine armed robberies and one unarmed robbery targeting banks, grocery stores, a pet store, and fast food restaurants. 

The crimes reportedly took place from August 4 to October 11. 

Authorities say in each of the robberies, the suspect would pretend to be a customer by ordering food or picking up store items.

Once at the counter, the suspect would reportedly supply the employee with a note informing them of the robbery or would show a handgun and demand money.

In recent robberies, the suspect has reportedly worn a painter's mask to hide his identity. Previously, he had worn a scarf that was wrapped around part of his head and face.

Brandon Risinger manages a Subway restaurant in Tempe and says a masked man came in while he was working back on October 5. Risinger says the robber slipped him a note, but had it facing the wrong way. 

"The one side it was flatbread, ham and bacon, plain, three cookies," Risinger said. "The other side was, 'stay calm, give me all the money out of the drawer."

An employee at one of the other locations that authorities believe was targeted by the "Fashion Forward Bandit" said the suspect actually apologized twice, and said his son has a medical condition.

The FBI says the suspect has made threats of harm if the victims did not comply with his demands. 

Several Valley agencies are investigating the "Fashion Forward Bandit" in conjunction with the FBI, including the Scottsdale Police Department, Tempe Police Department, Chandler Police Department, Glendale Police Department, Surprise Police Department, Gilbert Police Department and the Mesa Police Department.

Authorities describe the suspect as a Caucasian man with a medium build, 5'10" to 6'1", between 20 to 25 years of age with brown hair.

The suspect has been seen using a black handgun in robberies, according to the FBI. He is considered armed and dangerous. 

If you have any information on the identity of this man, you are asked to call the FBI Phoenix's Field office at 623-466-1999, or Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS, you can remain anonymous.