Authorities seek public help to catch Chit Chat Bandit

SAN DIEGO (CNS) – The FBI, San Diego police and the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department asked for the public’s help Tuesday in identifying a serial bank robbery dubbed the “Chit Chat Bandit.”

The “Chit Chat Bandit” likes to appear to be engaged in conversation related to the banking business while robbing banks, according to FBI Special Agent Darrell Foxworth.

He is suspected of “chatting up” tellers while robbing two Wells Fargo branches Wednesday and Friday.

On Wednesday, he robbed the Wells Fargo at 7544 Girard Ave. in La Jolla around 3 p.m., Foxworth said, adding that two days later, just before 5 p.m., the “Chit Chat Bandit” robbed the Wells Fargo in the Vons grocery store at 13439 Camino Canada in El Cajon.

No weapon or injuries were reported.

Foxworth said the bandit made both verbal and written demands for cash and, in the latest robbery, was seen fleeing on a green BMX-style bicycle.

Authorities described the bandit as a 30-something white man, about 5 feet 10 inches and 165 pounds, with a slender build and blond facial hair.

Tipster can call Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.