Armed robber returns to Lehigh Acres check cashing store

Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers is asking for the public’s help identifying a man who returned to a Lehigh Acres business Friday, just over a month after he’s accused of robbing the store at gunpoint on Dec. 21, 2018.

MORE: Armed robber on the run after Lehigh hold up 

According to the press release, Lee County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call at noon regarding a suspicious person at the Advance America check cashing store on the 1100 block of Homestead Road. A known customer was about to be buzzed into the locked business when a male coming from the alleyway walked up behind her.

According to the press release, the suspect was wearing sunglasses and a hat, which prompted employees to motion to him to remove the accessories before unlocking the door, which became standard procedure after the store was robbed at gunpoint on Dec. 21.

According to the press release, two employees, who both happened to be present for the December robbery, immediately recognized the man who held up the store previously. They both screamed, which caused the suspicious male to take off running.

According to the press release, a perimeter was established in the area, with officers on the ground, K9 units, as well as aviation assistance. The search party did not find the suspect.

According to the press release, the suspicious person who fled this afternoon matches the description of the December 2018 suspect. He is described as a white male in his 50s, approximately 6’0”, with a grey short beard. The December robbery occurred around 12:30 p.m., and today’s incident happened around the same time of day.

Anyone with information on the identity and whereabouts of the suspect can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS (8477). All callers will remain anonymous and will be eligible for a cash reward of up to $3,000. Tips may also be made online at www.southwestfloridacrimestoppers.com or by submitting a tip on the P3Tips mobile app.