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Police Link 'Business Bandit' To 7 Armed Robberies

Alleged robber
Bloomington Police

Bloomington Police on Wednesday reminded businesses to make sure their video surveillance systems are working properly, as investigators look for the "Business Bandit" suspected in at least seven armed robberies.

Police are investigating nine armed robberies since Dec. 8 in Bloomington-Normal:

  • Shell - 1801 South Veterans Parkway, Bloomington
  • Dollar General - 1100 South Cottage Avenue, Normal
  • JB Hawks - 1100 East Oakland Avenue, Bloomington
  • Little Caesars - 2507 East Oakland Avenue, Bloomington
  • CVS - 1130 South Veterans Parkway, Bloomington
  • Walgreens - 909 South Main Street, Bloomington
  • Rosati's Pizza - 203 North Prospect Road, Bloomington

"Based on information received in these cases, we believe the same suspect has been involved in at least seven of the armed robberies in Bloomington and Normal in that time frame," Bloomington Police said in a statement.
Police asked businesses to make sure their video surveillance systems are working and capturing clear video of their interior and exterior.

"Businesses should also take measures to ensure they do not have the exterior windows of their business covered with poster or flyers," Bloomington Police said.

The suspect, dubbed the Business Bandit, is described as a black male, 5-foot-6 to 5-foot-8 in height, with a medium build. The suspect was seen wearing a black hooded jacket with button or snap pockets on the front sides of the coat.

Anyone with information is asked to call BPD at (309) 434-2359 or, to remain anonymous, McLean County Crime Stoppers at (309) 828-1111.

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Ryan Denham is the digital content director for WGLT.
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