Public's help is sought in capturing bank robber

CHICAGO — With the statute of limitations approaching, the U.S. Justice Department is turning to the public for help in identifying a serial bank robber who has earned the nickname "Wheaton Bandit."

The man was given the name because seven to the 16 financial institutions he has been implicated in robbing in suburban Chicago were in Wheaton. The robberies occurred between January 2002 and December 2006.

In addition to describing the suspect, a Justice Department statement says the way he handled a weapon during the robberies indicates he may have had law enforcement or military training.

Authorities say the statute of limitations on bank robbery is five years and the expiration date for the cases involving the "Wheaton Bandit" is Dec. 7.