Retired New York Detective Athelston Kelson surrendered on Thursday, August 28, 2008, on charges of bank robbery. Kelson served the NYPD for 33 years and retired in 2005. Soon after retirement he was diagnosed with inoperable liver cancer. Kelson allegedly robbed nine New York banks while wearing eye catching rings and a gold watch. He was dubbed "The Bling Bandit."NY Daily News: 'Bling Bandit' Is Ex-NYPD ... (August 29, 2008)
Bling Bandit
The robber known as the "Bling Bandit" robbed seven banks in Nassau County beginning on June 12, 2008. Two banks in Queens were also robbed. The man, who is now believed to be Kelson, wore a pinky ring and a flashy watch. Surveillance tape shows Kelson, wearing a baseball cap and sunglasses, chatting with the bank tellers.WFSB.com (CT): Thief With Pinkie Ring Dubbed 'Bling Bandit' (August 27, 2008)
Athelston Kelson Blogs and Commentaries
- Black Political Thought: 'Bling Bandit' Athelston Kelson, Former NYPD... (August 29, 2008)
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Fast Facts
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59 at time of arrest
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Also known as Kelly Kelson
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Retired from the NYPD in 2005
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Last robbery
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Banks were located on western Long Island, in Nassau County and Queens
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