LAPD Believes “Western Bandit” Has Resurfaced

The Los Angeles Police Department believes a serial robber dubbed the Western Bandit has resurfaced.

Investigators believe the man is likely responsible for two incidents – an attempted robbery and another robbery in which a victim was shot and wounded – on Jan. 8.

The Western Bandit began his robbery spree in November 2011, according to LAPD, and has terrorized the Western Avenue corridor off and on since then.

Officials believe he is responsible for several robberies during that time over a three-day span. In one of those robberies, a transgender prostitute was shot to death in Hollywood.

Police believe he’s also responsible for a series of robberies between June and October 2012, and that he has a penchant for using a gun.

“He’s using handguns to do his robbery, and also the scary part is he’s shooting the victim after the victim complies with his demands,” LAPD Officer Christopher No told NBC 4. “So that’s a concern for us as well.”

Investigators said he operates most often between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. on Western Avenue between Hollywood and South Los Angeles.

No described the suspect as black, between 5 foot 9 inches and 6 feet tall, with medium complexion, curly hair and usually wearing dark clothing. Late last year, LAPD released a sketch of the attacker (pictured below).

Anyone with information is asked to call detectives at (213) 382 9470.

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