### "Penguin Bandit" Sentenced to Over 13 Years for Denver Bank Robberies

A Denver man, Samuel Richard Ruthstrom, was sentenced to 160 months in federal prison on October 17 for his involvement in a string of bank robberies in the Denver area. The 42-year-old had earlier pleaded guilty under a federal plea agreement to five counts of bank robbery.

According to the criminal complaint, Ruthstrom may have been involved in additional robberies beyond the five to which he confessed. His unique gait earned him the nickname "Penguin Bandit" and ultimately played a role in his identification. The Metro Denver Crime Stoppers had noted his distinctive "waddle" as far back as January.

FBI Special Agent in Charge Mark Michalek commented on the case, emphasizing the severe consequences of such crimes. "Robbing banks is not a career - it's a series of crimes that will net you serious federal prison time. That is what this defendant learned once the FBI Rocky Mountain Safe Streets Task Force tracked him down," he stated. Michalek also highlighted the importance of collaboration with partners like the Denver Police Department and Metro Denver Crime Stoppers in identifying and apprehending violent criminals.

Ruthstrom's method of operation during the robberies involved handing a demand note to the bank teller while verbally demanding money before fleeing the scene on foot. His movements and location during multiple robberies were tracked using cellphone tower triangulation, which ultimately led to his capture.

Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas expressed satisfaction with the resolution of the case. "The Denver Police Department is proud to see justice served in the case of this repeat offender. Partnerships between federal and local agencies are critical to stopping bank robberies and other violent crimes," Thomas said.

In addition to his prison sentence, Ruthstrom has been ordered to repay $3,365 in restitution and will be subject to three years of supervised release following his incarceration.