An Oklahoma judge ordered Xaviar Michael Bubudar, known as “ChiefsAholic,” to pay $10.8 million to a bank teller he assaulted during a robbery, though it may be difficult for the teller to collect the money. Bubudar, a Kansas City Chiefs superfan, dressed as a wolf at games and admitted to a series of bank robberies. The judge ordered him to pay $3.6 million to the teller for injuries and lost income, as well as $7.2 million in punitive damages. The teller’s attorney acknowledges the challenge of collecting the money but believes the judgment sends an important message that no one should profit from such actions.
While tellers have sued their employers over bank robberies in the past, it is less common for them to sue the actual robber. Attorneys note that bank robbers are generally not wealthy, making it unlikely for victims to collect significant amounts of money from them. In Bubudar’s case, he is currently imprisoned awaiting formal sentencing for his crimes. Frasier, the teller’s attorney, emphasized that if Bubudar were to profit from the story through book sales or other means, some of the judgment could be collected to compensate the victim. Despite the slim chances of collection, the judgment serves as a reminder of the consequences of criminal behavior.
Bubudar pleaded guilty to a series of bank robberies and attempted robberies across multiple states, as well as money laundering activities. He confessed to the crimes in 2022 and 2023 and admitted to laundering the stolen funds through casinos and online gambling. As part of his plea agreement, Bubudar must pay at least $532,675 in restitution and forfeit property, including an autographed painting of Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes that was recovered by the FBI. His formal sentencing is scheduled for July 10 in Kansas City.
Attorney Ed Blau, not involved in the case, commented on the strategic move by the teller to sue Bubudar, even though collecting the judgment may be improbable. He noted that while the judgment amount may be significant, the likelihood of actually receiving the money is minimal. Blau emphasized that the victim essentially has a judgment on paper only due to the financial circumstances of many bank robbers. Despite the challenges of collecting the money, the judge’s decision to hold Bubudar accountable for his actions is seen as a step toward justice for the victim.
The case involving Bubudar serves as a rare instance of a bank teller successfully suing a bank robber for damages incurred during a robbery. The judgment of $10.8 million issued by the judge sends a clear message that individuals who commit criminal acts will face consequences, even if collecting the funds proves challenging. The victim’s attorney, Frasier, underscored the importance of ensuring that no one profits from criminal actions, expressing hope that the judgment will deter others from engaging in similar behavior. Bubudar’s upcoming sentencing in July will determine the final resolution of the case and any additional penalties he may face as a result of his criminal activities.
