Serial Bank Robber Arrested NR24010mo

Los Angeles:  The Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery Homicide Division announced the arrest of 71-year-old Bruce Edward Bell.

On December 21, 2023, a robbery occurred in the 8000 block of Vineland Avenue, in City of Sun Valley.  During this incident, Bell entered the location, grabbed an employee and pointed a firearm.  Bell forced the employee to walk over to a restricted-access door.  Bell demanded entry into the secure area and stated he would otherwise shoot the employee.  Once inside, Bell ordered another employee to fill his bag with cash.  Bell fled from the location with over $60,000.00.

Witnesses at scene saw Bell drive away in a 2002 silver Volvo sedan and called 911.  Responding officers from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Foothill Division spotted the suspect vehicle and conducted a high-risk traffic stop.  During the stop, Bell was detained and a search of his car uncovered a black replica firearm and $64,000.00 in cash.  Bell was arrested for 209(A) PC – Kidnapping and booked into an LAPD jail facility. Booking number 6730081.

Bell has four prior bank robbery convictions and has served over 40 years in the Federal Department of Corrections. Bell was released in July 2021 and was on supervised release at the time of his arrest. Investigators believe there are other victims of robbery by Bell who have yet to be identified.  Photographs of Bell are being released in order to identify and speak with additional persons who may have been victimized.

Anyone who has been a victim or has information about this investigation, is urged to contact Detectives Mrakich and Delph at (213) 486-6840 or email RHDTIPLINE@LAPD.ONLINE.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247).  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.  Lastly, tipsters may also download the “P-3 Tips” mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.