Police Still Searching For Bank Robber

By GARY PINNELL | Highlands Today
Published: January 05, 2009

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SEBRING --

Police are still searching for a black man who held up a bank on Friday afternoon.

Sgt. Greg Barlaug said a teller at the downtown branch of Highlands Independent Bank was approached by tall man wearing black clothing, a cap, bandana, sunglasses and gloves. He held a leather or canvas bag.

The bandit said there was an explosive device in the bank and demanded money, Barlaug said. He took cash - although the police aren't disclosing how much - and fled on foot across Center and Franklin streets.

The 911 center dispatched police at 5:44 p.m. A perimeter was set up. Highlands County deputies and a K-9 unit assisted in the search, but lost the trail a block later, around Pomegranate, Barlaug said.

"It's unknown whether he got in a vehicle, or what," Barlaug said Saturday. "But he was not located."

Those with information about the robbery or the suspect can call Det. Larry Carmody at 471-5107.