King Soopers Robber Strikes A Fifth Time In Lakewood

LAKEWOOD, CO -- UPDATE: The King Soopers "Secret Shopper Bandit" has now struck eight times in Lakewood and Littleton. Read more here:

King Soopers Robber Strikes 8 Times In Lakewood, Littleton

Lakewood police said an unknown man robbed a King Soopers grocery store Nov. 5 appearing to be the same person who has robbed grocery stores in Lakewood five times since July. Police said the robber, a white male, dressed in sunglasses, a backwards baseball cap and carrying a cell phone, has robbed the store at 1927 S. Wadsworth four times, and the store at 1545 S. Kipling once. This time he got away with $1,400, but he has managed to steal up to $3,000 in one strike in the past.

Crime Stoppers issued a bulletin seeking information leading to his arrest. His dress and penchant for pretending to talk on the phone earned him the nickname "The Hipster Bandit" from local news channels.

"In each incident the suspect approached the service desk and waited for it to be clear of other people before contacting the cashier, he often appears to be talking on the phone while he waits for his opportunity," said a statement from Crime Stoppers. The man hands the desk employee a tote bag with a note announcing the robbery and telling them to fill the bag with money so they won't be hurt. Robberies have occurred between 6 and 8 p.m., police said.

Anyone with information is requested to call Metro Denver Crime Stoppers, or Lakewood Det. Jon Holloway 303-987-7823 or jholloway@lakewoodco.org.

Image via Lakewood Police