FBI: Sam Chatman Robbed Two Banks In One Day In Bronx, Manhattan
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- The FBI says a serial bank robber is getting more dangerous as he ratchets up his attacks on Chase banks around New York City.
After one daylight robbery in June and another in July, Sam Chatman, 54, hit two Chase branch banks Thursday, one at 225 Fifth Avenue in Manhattan at 11:45 a.m. and another about an hour later on West 225th Street in the Bronx.
In both robberies, Chatman flashed a gun and demanded cash.
The FBI says Chatman left a note threatening law enforcement and stating that he was willing to shoot anybody if they attempted to stop him.
Spokeperson J. Peter Donald said Chatman has to be stopped before he gets a chance to use the gun.
"Chatman's violent behavior is continuing to escalate and we're looking for the public's assistance in locating him," Donald told 1010 WINS. "People on a bus, on a train, on a subway can be on the lookout and take a close look at his photo and call their local police or FBI if they see him."
Chatman is believed to have several weapons and should be considered "armed and extremely dangerous."
He was last seen wearing a dark blue hat, plaid shirt, black jacket, light blue jeans, and black shoes. Chatman is described as a black male, 5'7'' to 5'9'' tall, and 200 pounds.
The FBI said he is known to frequent casinos.
A "significant" reward is being offered for tips that lead to Chatman.
Anyone with information is asked to call the FBI at 212-384-1000.
