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'Burly Bandit' allegedly robbed banks in four states

E-mail|Link|Comments () July 13, 2010 04:46 PM

Somers CT1.jpg

FBI photo

The so-called 'Burly Bandit'' as seen in surveillance photo from Somers, Conn. bank robbery on June 24.

By Globe Staff

Law enforcement officials are seeking the public's help in apprehending a man they believe is responsible for a total of 10 bank robberies in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.

The heavyset man, dubbed by the FBI the "Burly Bandit," concealed his face in different ways in each heist. He has used sunglasses, a wig, and hats, including a cowboy hat, officials said.

He has threatened to kill bank tellers and brandished a weapon. He is considered armed and dangerous, the FBI said in a statement.

The man is described as white, in his late 40s to early 50s, about 6 feet tall, weighing 250 to 300 pounds, with short brown hair.

The bank robberies happened in Darien and Somers, Conn.; Warwick, R.I.; Merrrimack, Hampstead, and Londonderry, N.H., and Tewksbury, Tyngsborough, Fitchburg, and North Attleboro, Mass. from April 12 to July 2.

Authorities asked anyone with information to call the FBI Violent Crimes Task Force at 617-742-5533. The FBI is offering a reward of up to $20,000, and the Massachusetts Bankers Association Tip Program is offering up to $5,000.