FBI: 'TCF Bandit' likely behind Elmhurst robbery
An Elmhurst bank was the target Monday in a string of robberies by a heavyset white male known to the FBI as "The TCF Bandit."
FBI officials say the suspect entered the TCF Bank in a Jewel-Osco grocery store at 153 E. Shiller Ave. at about 11 a.m. and handed the bank teller a note implying that he had a weapon.
The technique is similar to the one used by a man sought for at least 10 robberies committed since February of 2007 in far west Chicago and the near-western suburbs.
The teller's description of the suspect also matches security images of previous thefts attributed to The TCF Bandit.
"We believe there is a strong likelihood that it's the same individual," said FBI special agent spokesman Frank Bochte.
The most recent bank robbery attributed to the TCF Bandit was a Charter One Bank in Norridge on Aug. 5.
The FBI has offered a $15,000 reward for information leading to the bandit's capture. Pictures of the man can be seen at bandittrackerchicago.com.
"We believe the photos are clear enough to recognize this person," Bochte said.
While the man has not displayed a weapon, Bochte said residents should still presume the man is armed and dangerous.