‘Colorado bank robber ‘Penguin Bandit’ sentenced to 13 years’

Authorities in Denver, Colorado caught and sentenced the notorious “Penguin Bandit,” Samuel Richard Ruthstrom, to over 13 years in federal prison for robbing multiple banks. Ruthstrom pleaded guilty to four bank robberies and one attempted robbery earlier this year. The judge sentenced him to serve 160 months concurrently for five counts of bank robbery, along with three years of supervised release and significant restitution. U.S. Attorney Matt Kirsch emphasized the importance of such sentences for public safety.

Law enforcement, including the Denver Police Department and an FBI task force, worked together to catch Ruthstrom after he robbed various banks wearing a ski mask. The “Penguin Bandit” threatened tellers with notes demanding cash, ultimately making off with a total of $1,200. A tip identifying Ruthstrom led to his arrest, aided by surveillance footage and phone records placing him near the crime scenes. Ruthstrom’s distinct “waddle” earned him his intriguing nickname and helped officials track him down.