MARTINSVILLE, Ind. (WTHR) — A man who has made himself somewhat of a nuisance to law enforcement across the country wants police to know he’s in town.
The "Piggyback Bandit" who's real name is Sherwin Shayegan has cases in eight states from Washington to Virginia and New Jersey to Alabama. Now he's made his way to Indiana. The Washington State native made contact with a Martinsville Police Department officer after a Lyft driver took off with Shayegan’s personal belongings still in the car.
Martinsville PD and an Indiana State Police trooper helped Shayegan recover his belongings. He and the Lyft driver had a disagreement so the driver drove away. During the call to police Shayegan made himself known as the "Piggyback Bandit" to officers several times on the phone and in person.
One of the phone conversations took place between Sherwin and Police Chief Kurt Spivey.
“From the telephone conversation I had with him he seems to be visiting family here...family somewhere in the area,” Chief Spivey said.
Based on Shayegan’s behavior Spivey and his officers did a little digging on him. They learned about the "Piggyback Bandit" and his encounters with law enforcement in multiple states. They also obtained a copy of one of the booking photos of Shayegan who’s become somewhat of a nuisance to law enforcement from state to state.
“We also learned that he does have a couple of warrants in other states that are not considered serious enough in Indiana for extradition,” Spivey said.
Shayegan gained the reputation because he jumps on the back of unsuspecting athletes at high school games.
It last happened in 2018 in Alabama where Shayegan was charged with harassment because he hopped on the back of a football player and handed him vulgar written messages.
Now the so called “Piggyback Bandit” is in central Indiana.
Chief Spivey made it clear right away that the "Piggyback Bandit's" behavior would not be tolerated in Martinsville.
“We just mentioned we would appreciate if he stayed away from our schools and not enter that would be considered trespass. He's not under investigation of any type. Like I said, he has a large following and is well known for this persona he's created as the 'Piggyback Bandit,'” Chief Spivey said.
Shayegan is banned from high school sporting events in five states. Chief Spivey notified Martinsville schools and the superintendent alerted the schools to be on the lookout. The message to the staff said “this is not a joke” and to remember the rules regarding visitors, doors left open and to say something if you see something.