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Authorities Arrest Man Wanted In Miami Beach Bank Robbery

MIAMI BEACH (CBS4)- The man wanted by the FBI in connection with a robbery at a Miami Beach bank back in September is in police custody.

Federal agents said Cedrick Deon Swasey, 31, was arrested Friday at 10:30 p.m. for his alleged involvement in the armed robbery of the Wells Fargo Bank at 1901 Alton Road in Miami Beach on September 21, 2011.

Earlier Friday, the Miami-Dade Police Department spotted Swasey, of Sunny Isles, in Kendall before leading police on a small chase, but Swasey managed to get away.

Swasey was arrested in Miramar by members of the South Florida Violent Crime/Fugitive Task Force, the Miramar Police Department and the Miami Beach Police Department.

Police said Swasey disguised himself, went into the bank, ambushed two bank employees with a gun.

FBI agents have previously said that Swasey may also have taken part in the December 30th robbery in Weston. That robbery occurred at the SunTrust Bank, 2575 Glades Circle.

The robber entered the bank, wearing a mask covering his face, dark green jumpsuit and brown boots, and pointed a handgun at bank employees before demanding money, authorities said.

The man forced employees to open the bank vault.

The robber bagged tens of thousands of dollars in cold cash and calmly walked out of the bank.

The employees were very shaken up after staring at the gun being pointed at them.

Despite a search using chopper and canines, the robber managed to get away.

The FBI isn't saying much about Swasey or his involvement with the crimes.

FBI Special Agent Michael Leverock told CBS4's Natalia Zea on Friday evening, "With Channel 4's help, and we're trying to get him publicized on billboards in any way we can. He should be considered armed and dangerous and we certainly want him off the streets as soon as possible."

Swasey is facing federal charges, and is expected to appear in court on Monday in Miami.

CBS4 News conducted a records search on Swasey and found that he was charged with armed bank robbery in 2002.

The FBI said they are continuing to seek other suspects and persons of interest in connection with the case.

Anyone with information should call the FBI in Miami at 305-944-9101 or Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS.

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