FBI's Tom Simon Discusses Bank Robberies in Hawaii

Summary

The FBI has arrested 26-year-old Robert Torres in connection with two bank robberies in Honolulu. Surveillance footage captured an image of the suspect, including a distinctive tattoo on his forearm. Despite bank robberies being a high-risk crime, the rate of such crimes has significantly decreased in Hawaii, with only five bank robberies reported this year. Improved technology, such as high-definition cameras and tracking devices, has contributed to a higher rate of solving these crimes. The actual amount of money stolen in bank robberies is often far less than portrayed in films, making the crime less appealing for criminals.

Takeaways

• 😀 The FBI has arrested a man in connection with at least two bank robberies, including one at an American Savings branch on Keni Boulevard.
• 😀 The suspect, identified as 26-year-old Robert Torres, is believed to be the same man who allegedly robbed the Territorial Savings Bank in Ina the previous day.
• 😀 Surveillance footage captured a distinct tattoo on the man's left forearm, aiding in his identification.
• 😀 Bank robberies in Hawaii have decreased significantly in recent years, dropping from a high of 41 in 2006 to only 5 so far in 2025.
• 😀 Criminals are more opportunistic, choosing locations where success is more likely, and bank robberies are no longer seen as a high-reward crime.
• 😀 Honolulu police and the FBI have achieved a 100% clearance rate for bank robberies in 2011, solving every case that year.
• 😀 Technological advancements, such as high-tech digital cameras, have greatly improved the ability to identify suspects during robberies.
• 😀 Modern surveillance equipment allows for high-resolution images of suspects, replacing the old grainy black-and-white photos.
• 😀 Crime-solving technology, such as tracking devices, dye packs, and Bait bills, are helping to connect criminals to the crimes they've committed.
• 😀 Despite the risks, most bank robbery suspects do not make off with significant amounts of money, as portrayed in movies. The actual loot is typically minimal.

Q & A

Who is the man arrested in connection with the recent bank robberies in Honolulu?

The man arrested is 26-year-old Robert Torres, who is linked to at least two bank robberies in Honolulu.

Which banks are associated with the robberies Robert Torres is suspected of committing?

Robert Torres is suspected of robbing an American Savings branch on Keni Boulevard and the Territorial Savings Bank in Ina.

How did law enforcement identify Robert Torres as the suspect in the bank robberies?

Law enforcement identified Robert Torres through surveillance footage, which showed a distinctive tattoo on his left forearm.

What significant change has occurred in the frequency of bank robberies in Honolulu over the years?

The number of bank robberies in Honolulu has significantly dropped from 41 in 2006 to only five so far this year.

What factors contribute to the decrease in bank robberies in Hawaii?

The decrease in bank robberies is attributed to improved law enforcement technology, such as high-tech digital cameras and tracking devices, along with a general drop in criminal interest in bank robbery.

What is the clearance rate for bank robberies in Honolulu for the year 2011?

The clearance rate for bank robberies in Honolulu in 2011 was 100%, meaning every bank robbery that year was solved by law enforcement.

How has technology improved law enforcement's ability to catch bank robbers?

Technology has improved with high-resolution digital cameras that can zoom in on suspects, making it easier to identify criminals. Tracking devices, exploding dye packs, and bait bills also help connect suspects to the crime.

What role does Crime Stoppers play in solving bank robbery cases?

Crime Stoppers assists law enforcement by providing information that helps solve bank robbery cases more efficiently.

What is the actual amount of money criminals typically make from bank robberies in Honolulu?

The money involved in bank robberies is usually minimal, as the stolen funds are often tracked or marked, making it difficult for criminals to escape with significant amounts.

Why do bank robberies no longer appear to be a successful crime in Honolulu?

Bank robberies are no longer successful because of the high-tech security measures in place, the tracking of stolen money, and the relatively low rewards compared to the risks involved.