Kansas City Chiefs Superfan Arrested for Bank Robberies
In a shocking turn of events, a Kansas City Chiefs superfan, known as “Chiefsaholic” on social media, has been arrested in California after being on the run for four months. Xaviar Babudar, 29, was charged in a December bank robbery and is now also accused of perpetrating a string of robberies in the Midwest. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has linked him to six other unsolved robberies and attempted robberies in Iowa, Minnesota, Tennessee, and Nebraska. The total amount stolen is estimated to be over $800,000.
Arrest and Charges
Babudar was apprehended near Sacramento on Friday and has been charged with bank theft and transporting stolen property across state lines. He will appear in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California on Monday afternoon. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison for each charge. The case will be presented to a federal grand jury.
Evidence and Allegations
According to court documents, Babudar’s cellphone was tracked to the same locations as the previously unsolved bank robberies and attempted robberies. Additionally, authorities allege that he purchased and redeemed over $1 million in chips from various casinos in Missouri, Kansas, and Illinois between April and December 2022.
Babudar’s Social Media Persona
The ESPN investigation revealed that Babudar had a troubled upbringing and a history of legal trouble. Much of what he posted about himself on social media was found to be untrue. He frequently shared screenshots of betting slips, including successful bets on the Chiefs winning the Super Bowl and quarterback Patrick Mahomes winning the NFL regular-season MVP. Despite claiming to be homeless in court documents, Babudar has not had consistent income since October 2021.
Relief for Victims
The news of Babudar’s arrest has brought relief to his victims. Payton Garcia, a former teller who had a pistol pointed at her during the December 16 robbery, expressed her joy at his capture. Her attorney, Frank Frasier, stated that she is “ecstatic with the news that he has been caught.” Tulsa County District Attorney Steve Kunzweiler also commended the FBI’s efforts in finding and apprehending Babudar. He emphasized the importance of holding him accountable for his crimes.
Legal Proceedings
The Tulsa County District Attorney’s Office will collaborate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Missouri to determine the next steps in prosecuting Babudar. Kunzweiler expressed his intention to prosecute him in Tulsa County District Court before a federal case. He highlighted the risk Babudar posed to the public as a fugitive from justice after his bond was reduced against the prosecution’s objection.
Bondsman’s Efforts
Tulsa-area bondsman Michael Lloyd, who had been searching for Babudar since December, paid an $80,000 bond forfeiture fee just minutes before receiving a call from the FBI about Babudar’s arrest. Lloyd’s dedication to bringing Babudar to justice demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement and individuals involved in the case.
Conclusion
The arrest of Xaviar Babudar, a Kansas City Chiefs superfan, has brought an end to his four-month-long run from the law. Accused of multiple bank robberies in the Midwest, Babudar now faces serious charges and potential prison time. The investigation into his activities revealed a troubled past and a discrepancy between his social media persona and reality. As legal proceedings unfold, the victims can find solace in knowing that justice is being served.