Job Application Bandit NR12567LG

Los Angeles: LAPD Robbery Homicide Division detectives are asking for the public’s help to identify the suspect involved in a series of robberies that have occurred in the West Valley, Topanga and Devonshire Areas.

LAPD’s Robbery Special Section is currently investigating a robbery series which has been dubbed the "Job App Bandit." The suspect is believed responsible for nine robberies which have occurred between September 2, 2012 and November 10, 2012.  Four of the robberies have occurred at different Starbucks Coffee Shops, four have occurred at different Subway Restaurants and one has occurred at a Coffee Bean Coffee Shop.  There has also been one robbery in the City of Ventura and one in the City of Burbank.

The suspect approaches these businesses when they are in the process of closing.  The suspect asks for a job application or a glass of water and upon receiving the item, commits a robbery.  The suspect simulates a handgun or brandishes it to the clerk, takes money from the registers and demands access to the safe.  The suspect then flees the location on foot.

The suspect is described as a 20-to 30-year-old Black male wearing a hooded sweatshirt, black "Raiders" beanie, large dark-frame glasses and a dark-colored backpack.  He stands 5 feet 4 inches to 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighs 140 to 160 pounds.

Anyone with information regarding these robberies or the suspect is urged to contact Robbery Homicide Division, Detective Tom Thornton at 213-486-6840.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to www.lapdonline.org, and click on "Anonymous Web Tips.”