Texas Authorities Searching for "Backpack Robber"

John Burnett, Associate Editor

In Texas, state and local law enforcement have been joined by the FBI in their search for an unknown bank robbery suspect they're calling the "Backpack Robber." The photo posted on BOL's Bank Robbery Suspects page for August 2006 (next to last row, right column) shows him with his trademark pack, although recent report suggest he's stopped wearing it.

According to authorities, "Backpack" is one of two serial robbers who have been hitting North Texas financial institutions recently. Law enforcement stepped up their search after announcing their arrest of Mark Anthony Ortiz, alleged to be the other repeat offender, dubbed the "Envelope Bandit." There is no evidence that suggests the two have been working together.

"Backpack" is being sought in connection with 15 or more robberies in the Dallas area, and at least one in Austin.

According to the FBI, there were 28 bank robberies reported in Dallas County in 2005, but the 2006 count will eclipse that number, with 63 reported in less than eight months' time. North Texas has seen at least 135 bank robberies in that same period.

First published on BankersOnline.com 8/15/06