Surge of bank robberies in NYC

  By Scott Curkin & Lakisha Bostick Eyewitness News

NEW YORK (WABC) -- Bank robberies are making a pretty big comeback in New York City -- up 26 percent from this time last year.

The NYPD says that some banks are responding with better security -- while some are not.

Chase has put in extra security, but after being unable to get any cash at three Chase branches -- this thief got a thousand dollars from a TD bank in Midtown.

Police Commissioner Ray Kelly says TD Banks are the most vulnerable in the city.

Police say so far one man has robbed nine banks and made attempts at several others. Authorities add, he tried to rob this chase bank and two others on Monday alone. He was able to successfully rob a TD bank getting, $1000.

Police officials are encouraging all banks to use barriers between customers and tellers, along with additional cameras.

More Info on the Bank Robberies:

The New York City Police Department is seeking the public's assistance in identifying the following suspect wanted in connection with seven bank robberies in Manhattan.

In each incident the suspect enters the bank, approaches a teller and demands cash. The suspect then flees on foot.

Incident No.1:
Monday, January 26, 2009, 1128 hours, at Wachovia Bank, located at 540 Madison Avenue.

Incident No.2:
Thursday, January 29, 2009, 1600 hours, at HSBC Bank, located at 80 8th Avenue.

Incident No.3:
Tuesday, February 03, 2009, 1647 hours, at Sovereign Bank, located 864 8 Avenue.

Incident No.4:
Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 1623 hours, at HSBC Bank, located at 80 8 Avenue.

Incident No.5:
Wednesday, February 11, 2009, 1652 hours, at Chase Bank, located at 230 Park Ave South.

Incident No.6:
Tuesday, February 17, 2009, 1439 hours, at Capital One Bank, located at 404 5th Avenue.

Incident No.7:
Wednesday, February 18, 2009, 1630 hours, at Chase Bank, located at 909 Madison Avenue.

Incident No.8:
Tuesday, February 24, 2009, 1730 hours, at Capital One Bank, located at 470 Park Avenue South.

Anyone with information in regards to these incidents is asked to call Crime stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime stoppers website at WWW.NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.COM or by texting their tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then enter TIP577.

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