(TYLER, TX) - United States Attorney John Ratcliffe announced today that a 40-year-old Tyler man has been arrested pending indictment on federal bank robbery charges in the Eastern District of Texas.

A criminal complaint charging PAUL EDWARD THOMAS was filed by federal agents today. According to prosecutors, Thomas is suspected of robbing several banks in the Tyler area. Thomas appeared before United States Magistrate Judge John Love today for an initial appearance.

It is important to note that a complaint, arrest, or indictment should not be considered as evidence of guilt and that all persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jim Middleton.