Quick change artist scamming banks
Lee County detectives are searching for a quick change artist who has stolen a total of nearly $2,000 from two different Lee County banks.
On July 2, the suspect entered the Wachovia Bank at 8700 Corkscrew Road, Estero, and presented the teller with a stack of $2,700.00 in $50 bills. The suspect requested $100 bills. The teller counted out the $100 bills and placed them on the counter. The suspect then stated that he needed the money in Euros. The teller explained that it would take time to get that number of Euros. The suspect then handed back the $100 bills and asked for his $50 bills back. After the suspect left, the teller noticed $900 in $100 bills missing.
On Aug. 18, the quick change artist struck Regions Bank at 24836 South Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs. Again, the suspect presented a stack of $50 bills and requested $100 bills. When the teller presented the $100 bills, the suspect again indicated that he “needed Euros.” He retrieved his $50 bills and left. The teller then noticed $1,000 in $100 bills was missing.
The suspect is described as a white male, approximately 5 foot 8 inches tall and 280 pounds. The suspect had black hair and spoke with a European, possibly German, accent.
If you can identify this suspect, officials ask that you call the Lee County Sheriff’s Office at 477-1000. Or, to remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000, call Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS.