The infamous Kansas City Chiefs Superfan, Xavier Babudar, known by his pseudonym “ChiefsAholic”, has been apprehended by federal authorities after being on the run for several months. Babudar, who was previously arrested on a bank robbery charge, had removed his ankle monitor and evaded authorities while out on bail.
From Fan to Fugitive: Babudar’s Arrest
Xavier Michael Babudar, 28, an Overland Park, Kansas resident was captured after three months of intensive search by authorities in Lincoln, California and confirmed by Missouri’s western district U.S. attorney’s office as such.
Known for his elaborate gray wolf suit worn at the Chiefs’ games, Babudar had gained significant popularity as ChiefsAholic, particularly after a feature on ESPN.com. However, the FBI’s criminal complaint unsealed recently reveals that behind the sports fanatic persona was an alleged perpetrator of multiple bank and credit union robberies across the Midwest.
Details of Babudar’s Alleged Crimes
The complaint alleges that Babudar targeted financial institutions, making off with large sums of money, including a significant heist of nearly $70,000 from the Great Western Bank in Clive, Iowa, in March 2022. Babudar allegedly laundered the stolen funds through casinos and his bank accounts, in what authorities are labeling as an elaborate money laundering scheme.
As the investigation progresses, additional charges might be brought against him. Babudar’s appointed public defender, Hannah Labaree, stated that the initial court appearance in California was largely procedural.
Grand Jury to Decide on Federal Charges
The case will now advance to a grand jury, which will deliberate on whether to indict Babudar on the federal charges related to the Iowa incident, as well as any other relevant charges.
The FBI’s affidavit revealed disturbing details, claiming that Babudar had stolen over $845,000 from six different financial institutions. His purported method of laundering involved purchasing and redeeming casino chips in Kansas, Missouri, and Illinois, as well as funding his own bank accounts. One of his grandest exploits involved the purchase of casino chips worth over $1.1 million.
Unraveling the Babudar Mystery
FBI Special Agent Cameron Smith stated in the affidavit that despite the elaborate money laundering scheme, Babudar had reported no wages in Kansas since 2018 and none in any other state since October 2021. Cell phone data and material evidence like gloves matching those used during the crimes link Babudar to the locations of the robberies.
ChiefsAholic: A Downfall that Shocked the Fan Community
Babudar’s arrest has sent shockwaves through the Chiefs’ fan community, who had known him as an ardent supporter of the team, often seen at the games in his distinctive wolf costume.
His absence during the 2022-23 season did raise a few eyebrows among the Chiefs’ Twitter community, and the news of his arrest following his disappearance has left them dumbfounded.
Aftermath of Chiefsaholic’s Arrest
Charges against Babudar include bank theft and transportation of stolen property across state lines. According to the Department of Justice, cell phone records loosely connect him to locations where other unsolved or attempted bank robberies occurred.
Fans are still trying to come to grips with the reality that someone they once considered an enthusiastic supporter of their team has become the key suspect in bank robberies and an extensive money-laundering scheme. As investigations progress further into these crimes, new details may surface regarding these suspects that will further shake fans’ collective belief system. For now, Babudar’s Twitter account, once buzzing with activity, remains inactive.
Charges and Potential Consequences for Babudar
Babudar was arrested by the FBI after months of evasion; their efforts finally paid off with Babudar being in custody awaiting court appearance. As Babudar faces his charges, the Chiefs’ fan community, the victims, and the witnesses of his alleged crimes eagerly anticipate the final verdict.
