A string of bank robberies hit Tennessee, North Carolina and South Carolina since 2009. The robber remains elusive, and has come to be known with the moniker, “Too Tall Bandit”. His imposing stature and calculated methods have made him a persistent thorn in the side of law enforcement. Here is a closer look at this enigmatic criminal that cost police officials their night’s sleep!
The moniker
The “Too Tall Bandit” moniker is more than just a name. It highlights a key physical attribute – his extraordinary height. People who saw him estimate his height to be between 6’0 and 6’8. Woah! This detail makes him easily recognizable to witnesses and helps differentiate him from other bank robbers. One wonders how such a tall person haven’t been found already! He must be easily identifiable anywhere.
The region of loot
The too tall bandit’s focus on the Carolinas and Tennessee suggests a comfort level with the region’s geography. He likely understands the layout of the cities, escape routes, and potentially even the banking procedures of local institutions. Is he a local? Perhaps. But, there is a higher probability that he would have been found already if he were a local.
Decade long heists
The decade-long timeframe of the robberies (the last reported robbery was in 2020) indicates a persistent criminal with experience. It also suggests the bandit has been successful in his operations, allowing him to potentially fund his lifestyle and improve his methods.
The modus operandi
The use of disguises like masks and gloves demonstrates a clear intent to avoid identification. Additionally, changing clothes between robberies suggests a calculated approach to minimizing the chances of being recognized. Also, he robbed banks located in rural areas, near forests.
A black handgun
While the exact firearm is unknown, the use of a black handgun signifies the bandit’s willingness to resort to violence, if necessary. It also indicates a level of planning and potentially experience with handling weapons. He would threaten the bank teller with the handgun and force to handover cash in his backpack.
What about the vaults?
The inconsistency in targeting teller drawers or vaults could be due to several factors. Perhaps the bandit assessed the security measures of each bank or the availability of cash in the tellers’ drawers. Maybe he would spend some time assessing the banks before striking. Therefore, he had clarity on what to loot when he entered a particular bank.
Jumping over the counter
Vaulting over bank teller counters is an unusual tactic. While intimidating, it could also indicate unexpected agility or a background in activities requiring such movements (e.g., gymnastics, parkour). One can understand with certainty that the too tall bandit is extremely agile for his height.
Walking with a limp
The limp on his right leg is a significant detail. A limp can be caused by various factors, but it’s a unique physical characteristic that someone familiar with the too tall bandit might recognize. This detail has the potential to be a crucial lead for investigators.
Deep intimidating voice
The deep voice, along with the limp, offers another clue for identification. Someone who knows the bandit personally or has interacted with him in a non-robbery situation might recognize his voice despite the mask.
FBI is giving a reward
A substantial reward of $15,000 (last checked July 2024) offered by the FBI reflects the seriousness of the case. It also highlights the authorities’ commitment to apprehending the too tall bandit and potentially encourages people with information to come forward.