It’s no laughing matter for one local amateur comedian, arrested after authorities said he robbed a bank, twice. Officials with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrested Jeffrey Lluis Thursday.
According to authorities, Lluis walked into the Suntrust Bank, along the 5300 block of Ehrlich Road Tuesday, and claimed he had an explosive device, demanded money, and took off. Thursday, investigators said Lluis targeted the bank again.
“He approached the same teller. Even said, yes, it’s me again. Give me all your money,” said Captain Andy Ross, with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities said witnesses saw Lluis leave and gave authorities a description of him and his car. Lluis is known to investigators for past incidents and was picked up, positively identified, and later arrested.
Lluis has performed in some comedy clubs around Tampa during open mic nights. Brian Thompson, general manager at Side Splitters Comedy Club in Carrollwood, said Lluis performed there a few times this year. He believes, just for fun.
“I was as surprised as anybody. Very shocking to hear that in the community, especially someone you’ve met,” said Thompson.
Lluis faces a number of charges, including robbery and possession of cocaine. He has been arrested before, also on drug and robbery charges.
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