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This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.

KPCC Archive

$10,000 reward offered for 'Plain Jane Bandit' who allegedly robbed 6 banks in SoCal

The "Plain Jane Bandit" is wanted by the FBI in a series of Southland bank robberies.
The "Plain Jane Bandit" is wanted by the FBI in a series of Southland bank robberies.
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Photo: FBI
)

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U.S. Bank has offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the “Plain Jane Bandit.”

In the past two weeks, the suspect has allegedly robbed half a dozen banks across the Southland, most of them U.S. Bank branches. She's described as a Latina between 5 feet 3 inches and 5 feet 5 inches tall, and she is likely 35 to 45 years old.

FBI spokeswoman Laura Eimiller said investigators believe the woman is working alone, despite her claims she has an accomplice.

“She uses somewhat of an elaborate ruse inside the banks," said Eimiller. "[She] demands cash, in some cases will demand $800, in some cases $500. She’ll also use a note, which has been described as not very legible.”

Eimiller said the suspect got her moniker after a witness told an FBI agent that her appearance was that of a Plain Jane.

The last holdup happened Tuesday afternoon at the U.S. Bank branch at Clinton Keith Road in Wildomar.

Authorities said the suspect may have used a silver four-door vehicle with a sun roof to make her getaway.

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Eimiller would not disclose the total amount of money the "Plain Jane Bandit" has apparently stolen because of the ongoing investigation.

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