Originally published January 12, 2009 at 12:00 PM | Page modified January 12, 2009 at 12:22 PM

Police: "Coin-Op Bandit" has stolen thousands from SeaTac vending machines

A well-dressed older man dubbed the "Coin-Op Grandpop Bandit" has made off with thousands of dollars from vending machines in a SeaTac hotel over the last half year, according to the King County Sheriff's Office.

By Christine Clarridge

Seattle Times staff reporter

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A nattily dressed grandfatherly bandit has been robbing Coca Cola machines in Seatac. Each vending machine loss is several hundred dollars.

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According to the Sheriff's Office, the man has been opening the vending machines and removing the cash boxes at the Doubletree Hotel in the 18700 block of International Boulevard since June. The thefts are typically not discovered until technicians arrive to collect the cash or perform routine maintenance, deputies said.

The Sheriff's Office estimates that the man has taken thousands of dollars. The man, who police say appears to be between 60 and 70 years old, was recently photographed during one theft. He was wearing glasses, a dress shirt, a tie and an overcoat.

Anyone who recognizes him is asked to call the Sheriff's Office at 206-296-3311.

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Comments

If a photo was taken of him during a theft, it would be easier for the public to help identify him if you published the photo they way they do on... Posted on January 12, 2009 at 12:25 PM by bethm. Jump to comment

How is he getting into the machine? They are fairly sophisticated pieces of equipment. If the vending company who manages this account is upset,... Posted on January 12, 2009 at 1:17 PM by forfun. Jump to comment

Considering how these machines are opened and the 60-ye-record breaking recession we're in, I wouldn't be surprised if this guy is a... Posted on January 12, 2009 at 4:52 PM by Unixan. Jump to comment

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