Police Believe Same Suspect Linked to 2 SunTrust Bank Robberies

Montgomery County Police believe the same unknown suspect is linked to two armed robberies of Potomac's SunTrust Bank branch, at 9812 Falls Road in the Potomac Place Shopping Center.

Detectives in the Major Crimes Division-Robbery Section noticed similarities in the two robberies, the first of which occurred on January 7, 2011 and last week's robbery of the same bank on July 21.

Investigation of the Jan. 7 robbery, which officers responded to at approximately 1:31 pm., revealed that a suspect had entered the bank wearing sunglasses, gloves and a hood. The suspect displayed a handgun to the teller, demanded cash and fled on foot in an unkown direction.

Last Thursday July 21, at approximately 9:54 a.m., first district officers again responded to a report of a just-completed robbery at the bank. Investigation found the suspect had entered the bank wearing sunglasses and a mask to conceal his identity, displayed a handgun, demanded cash and again fled on foot in an unknown direction.

The suspect's image was caught on camera by the bank’s surveillance system in both instances and photos were obtained by police.

Noting the similarity in the suspect's description and modus operandi and comparing the surveillance photographs, Police robbery detectives believe the two robberies are linked to the same unknown suspect.

Crime Solvers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest and/or indictment of the person responsible for these bank robberies.

Detectives ask anyone with information on the robberies and/or the suspect to call the Robbery Section at 240-773-5100. Those who wish to remain anonymous should call Crime Solvers of Montgomery County, toll-free at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477), or 240-773-TIPS (8477). Anonymous tips can also be provided by typing “MCPD” plus the tip on a cell phone or PDA and texting to 274637 (CRIMES).