Richland Co. Sheriff Seeks Hockey Mask Bandit

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)– Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott is offering a $5,000.00 reward for information leading to the arrest of an armed robbery suspect, wanted in connection with at least 18 robberies. Sheriff Leon Lott says the Hockey Mask Bandit is wanted in Richland County, City of Columbia, Lexington County, City of Sumter, and Forest Acres for multiple armed robberies. Deputies say the suspect is believed responsible for robbing 18 businesses since November 21, 2014. Deputies say the suspect robs the businesses in the evening, and during the most congested parts of the day. Sheriff Leon Lott says the suspect enters the business with his face and hands covered presenting a handgun and demanding cash. The Sheriff says the suspect has robbed restaurants, specialty stores, even dollar stores.