Brian Robinson, 49, of Los Angeles, has been arrested and faces federal charges in connection with at least 17 bank robberies in the Los Angeles area since the beginning of the year. Robinson is scheduled to appear in US District Court on Friday to answer allegations that he robbed banks in Los Angeles, Seal Beach, Santa Monica, Covina, Beverly Hills, Glendale and Manhattan.

Robinson is accused of robbing the First Federal Bank on West Pico Boulevard twice. He is also believed to have robbed two banks in one day on four separate occasions. Robinson was named as a suspect in the robberies several weeks ago, but continued to rob banks and elude capture. He was arrested Wednesday at a residence, and police say the tips they received led to his arrest.

During the robberies, Robinson threatened to start shooting if his demands for money were not met. Robinson implied, but never showed a weapon in the incidents, but police said that his behavior was getting more aggressive with each robbery.

Bank robbery is a federal offense, but the crime can be prosecuted in either the federal or state courts. If you’ve been arrested for bank robbery, or a related crime, you need the advice of a criminal defense attorney who has experience defending against both federal and state prosecutions. Robert Michael Helfend is a practicing criminal defense attorney in Southern California and takes cases in Los Angeles County, Orange County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County and Ventura County. He is also licensed to practice in any US federal district court in the nation.

The intersection of federal and state laws is complex. You need an aggressive criminal defense attorney on your side, who can explain what is happening, and how you can best defend yourself. Contact Robert Helfend today to discuss your case.

Photo Credit: Colin Robertson