Serial Bank Robber ‘Sticky Note Bandit’ Arrested After Targeting Houston Banks
An alleged serial bank robber known as the ‘Sticky Note Bandit’ has been apprehended after being accused of four separate bank robberies in Houston, Texas. The FBI, Harris County Sheriff’s Office Violent Crimes Unit (VCU), and Houston Police collaborated on the case to capture the suspect.
The suspect, identified as Gaiibreal Tariq Bell, gained notoriety for his distinctive modus operandi, which included dressing as a woman for two of the robberies. During these instances, Bell wore a black wig, sunglasses, a green jumper, ballet flats, and a blue medical mask while carrying a black purse.
On Friday, Bell was arrested by FBI agents and will now face charges at the state level. The FBI Houston took to Twitter to announce the breakthrough, stating, The ‘Sticky Note Bandit’ has been identified and arrested by #FBI agents… Gaiibreal Tariq Bell now faces state charges for four robberies he allegedly perpetrated over a two-week period in July 2023.
The series of robberies began when Bell targeted Hancock Whitney Bank on July 5. Approaching a teller, he presented a threatening note written on a sticky note, demanding cash. Following this incident, Bell proceeded to rob a Wells Fargo bank in Houston on July 11 at around 12:09 am. During this robbery, the teller sought safety by retreating to the back room, leaving the suspect empty-handed. Fortunately, no one was physically harmed in the process.
The third robbery occurred at another Wells Fargo bank two days later, around 3:30 pm. On both occasions, Bell handed over a threatening note to the bank staff. In the fourth and final robbery, Bell targeted a Bank of America branch. In an effort to assist in capturing the suspect, the FBI offered a reward of up to $5,000 for any information leading to his identification and arrest.
#BREAKING The “Sticky Note Bandit” struck again today at the Bank of America on San Felipe Street! He has committed four robberies in less than two weeks, and we need your help to find him!
Call @CrimeStopHOU at 713-222-TIPS with any information. Up to a $5,000 reward! #HouNews pic.twitter.com/HKQixdaVjz
— FBI Houston (@FBIHouston) July 18, 2023
Authorities have described the suspect as a black male, approximately 5’8 tall, with a thin to medium build. During his last two robberies, he disguised himself with a black wig, black sunglasses, a blue medical mask, a green women’s style sweater, black women’s ballet flats, and carried a black purse.
The apprehension of the ‘Sticky Note Bandit’ brings relief to the Houston community and the institutions that were targeted. The collaborative efforts between the FBI, Harris County Sheriff’s Office VCU, and Houston Police played a crucial role in successfully capturing Bell. This serves as a reminder of law enforcement’s determination and commitment to safeguarding the well-being of citizens and businesses alike.
As the legal proceedings unfold, it remains to be seen how Bell’s case will progress at the state level. The charges he faces for the four robberies committed during a two-week period in July 2023 will be subjected to the judicial system.
