FBI Believes Manhattan Beach Bank Robber May Be 'Hypnotist Bandit'

The so-called “Hypnotist Bandit” struck again Friday, robbing a bank in Manhattan Beach, an FBI spokeswoman said.

That makes four robberies spread throughout Los Angeles County, according to Laura Eimiller.

The suspect was given the moniker after victim tellers indicated that he stared at them and continued to make eye contact during the robbery.

In Friday’s incident, a man matching the description of the Hypnotist Bandit robbed Bank of America, 1200 Highland Ave., at about 4:35 p.m. Friday.

The suspect passed a note demanding large bills, Eimiller said. The note advised “this is a robbery” and to make it “quick and easy.” 

Manhattan Beach police responded to the call.

Other Hypnotist Bandit-related robberies occurred:

May 27 Bank of the West, 2500 East Colorado Blvd., Pasadena

June 3 HSBC Bank, 9601 Las Tunas Drive, Temple City

June 3 Bank of the West, 2041 Durfee Ave., South El Monte

The suspect is described as about 30 years old, Caucasian or Hispanic, 6’2” – 6’4” tall, weighing 190-200 lbs. with a thin build, dark eyes, brown hair, a goatee and a faded red heart tattoo with black outline on one hand.