For Immediate Release - Jan 30, 2006

Contact:

Pam Russell DA Public Information 303-271-6905

Re: Alleged Interpol Impostor Arrested

Agents of the Colorado Bureau of Investigation arrested 42 year-old David Race Bannon of Charlotte, North Carolina, on January 27, 2006, following the issuance of an arrest warrant accusing him of Criminal Impersonation, Computer Crime and Criminal Attempt to Commit Theft.

According to the arrest warrant affidavit, officials of Interpol, the international crime-fighting organization, complained to the CBI that Bannon has long claimed to be a former Interpol agent and has written a book describing his activities during 20 years with Interpol.  As described in the book, most of his Interpol exploits related to his investigations of human trafficking. 

The affidavit alleges that Bannon has used his reported association with Interpol, his purported doctorate in history and other fabricated credentials to become a recognized expert in human trafficking.  According to the affidavit, he then solicited speaking engagements and agreed to provide training seminars in human trafficking, for which he reportedly sought "substantial fees."

The affidavit alleges that Bannon was never an official of Interpol and that he does not have the educational credentials he has claimed, including the doctorate.  According to the affidavit, Bannon also fabricated information regarding prior employment, professional publications and previous law enforcement training.

Bannon bonded out on January 27. His bond amount was $5,000.00.