FBI: Man using fake explosives to rob Ariz. banks

FBI looking for man who tried to rob 3 Phoenix-area banks using fake explosives

PHOENIX (AP) -- Federal authorities are searching for a man who's tried to rob three banks in the Phoenix metropolitan area using fake explosive devices.

Phoenix FBI officials say the so-called "Dynomite" bandit was at a Chase Bank in Peoria on July 3, a Wells Fargo Bank in Anthem on Dec. 21, and another Chase branch in Scottsdale on Wednesday.

In each case, authorities say the man gained entry to the bank after normal business hours through a hole cut in the roof. He then placed a device that looked like an explosive inside the bank and exited undetected.

The following morning when the bank opened, the suspect made a phone call demanding money and threatened to blow up the bank if his demands weren't met. Authorities say the man got money in only one robbery.