Photos: Good Grammar Bandit is doing his teachers proud -- sort of

There are two ways to look at the Rocky Mountain Safe Street Task Force's decision to dub a wanted bank robber the "Good Grammar Bandit." Either he's proof that our much-criticized education system is doing a better job of turning out literate graduates than is generally acknowledged or evidence of...

By Michael Roberts

April 8, 2014

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There are two ways to look at the Rocky Mountain Safe Street Task Force's decision to dub a wanted bank robber the "Good Grammar Bandit." Either he's proof that our much-criticized education system is doing a better job of turning out literate graduates than is generally acknowledged or evidence of its continuing problems, because the notes penned by all the other bandits suck so hard.

We prefer a glass-half-full approach. Here's the latest, in words, Google Maps and (lots of) photos.

In less than a week, according to the local branch of the FBI, Mr. Good Grammar -- so named because his notes are neatly typed, with proper grammar and punctuation -- has allegedly knocked over four financial institutions, each featured in interactive graphics below. If you have problems seeing the images, click "View Larger Map."

April 2, 2014, 2:03 PM TCF Bank 2185 East 120th Avenue Northglenn, Colorado

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April 3, 2014, 9:42 AM Chase Bank 9379 Sheridan Boulevard Westminster, Colorado

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April 6, 2014 10:15 AM TCF Bank 4100 West 144th Avenue Broomfield, Colorado

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April 7, 2014 9:10 AM Chase Bank 13781 Colorado Blvd Thornton, Colorado

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This suspect's m.o. is to enter the bank, present a really excellent note and then scoot on foot with the cash. He's described as an African-American male in his thirties, standing between five-nine and six feet in height and boasting a slender build. Judging by the photos, he also appears to favor dark glasses, big jackets and hats with flaps.

Look below and on the next page for surveillance photos of the intellectually estimable scofflaw. If you recognize him, you're encouraged to contact the Rocky Mountain Safe Streets Task Force at 303-629-7171 or Crime Stoppers at 720-913-STOP (7867). The latter is offering a reward of up to $2,000 for information leading to his arrest and conviction.

Continue to see more photos of the Good Grammar Bandit.

Send your story tips to the author, Michael Roberts.

More from our Colorado Crimes archive circa December: "Milli Vanilli Bandits busted? Suspects Derrick Erwin and Jeremy Erwin in custody."

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

Contact: Michael Roberts

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