Cops: "Apologetic Bandit" may be suspect in 7-Eleven robbery

LAKE FOREST, Calif. – Police believe that a 19-year-old arrested last Friday for allegedly committing armed robbery at a 7-Eleven in Lake Forest may be the “Apologetic Bandit,” who is thought to have committed approximately 10 robberies in the past year, reports CBS Los Angeles.

Farhad Sharifi, of Aliso Viejo, was arrested around 3 a.m. Friday when deputies responding to the scene followed a suspicious vehicle and took the suspect into custody after a brief foot chase.

According to CBS Los Angeles, officials recovered evidence during their follow-up investigation that linked Farhad to an estimated 10 robberies of gas stations and convenience stores in the Orange County area.

The criminal responsible for the previous robberies had been dubbed the “Apologetic Bandit” for reportedly apologizing to his victims after committing the crimes, according to police.

Sharifi was being held without bail.

Anyone with information about Sharifi or the robberies is asked to call the Orange County Sheriff’s Department at (949) 425-1900. Anonymous tips or information can also be submitted to Orange County Crime Stoppers at 855-TIP-OCCS (855-847-6227) or at occrimestoppers.org.