Suspects of a Houston bank robbery from Wells Fargo Houston have now been identified as underage children. The authorities have officially confirmed three boys who were suspected of the juvenile crime, ages 11, 12, and 16.
The incident, which occurred in the Greenspoint area of north Houston, involved the boys passing a threatening note to a bank teller before fleeing on foot with an undisclosed sum of money. Although the boys were believed to be armed during the robbery, no weapons were displayed.
Houston Bank Robbery by Little Rascals
The police authorities have dubbed the juvenile trio who recently robbed the bank Wells Fargo in Houston, Texas, as the "little rascals."
According to a statement issued by the FBI's Houston Field Office, the accused children are aged 11, 12, and 16. With the crime, these kids will be facing charges related to robbery by threat, which is classified as a second-degree felony under Texas law.
In consideration of their status as minors, the FBI opted not to disclose their names to the public and media or provide further details. Before their apprehension, the FBI circulated surveillance footage of the suspects, which prompted witnesses to offer insights into their approximate ages.
Following the robbery, the trio fled the scene on foot, triggering an ongoing investigative effort by law enforcement agencies. The nickname "Little Rascals" is reminiscent of the beloved "Our Gang" series and the popular 1994 movie of the same name.
Ongoing Investigation in this Juvenile Crime
As per the Harris County Sheriff's Office (HCSO), the boys handed a threatening note to a bank teller during the incident. Although they were suspected of being armed, they did not brandish a weapon and managed to escape with an undisclosed sum of money.
Upon the release of their photos, HCSO began receiving tips from the public. The parents of two of the boys came forward to identify them, as reported by the sheriff's office.
The third boy came to the attention of law enforcement after an altercation and was subsequently recognized. Notably, authorities recovered a weapon and a distinctive item depicted in one of the photos.
The trio, known as the "little rascals," faces charges of robbery by threat, classified as a second-degree felony.
Mike Schneider commented, "I was considering whether this was a less sophisticated act or possibly influenced by an adult. It's not uncommon for adult offenders to persuade minors to commit crimes due to the milder penalties minors face."
Investigators have not disclosed any information regarding additional accomplices or the recovery of stolen money.
If the accusations are substantiated, the boys could be subject to probation until they reach 18 years of age or juvenile detention until they turn 19, according to a criminal defense attorney. However, the 16-year-old's certification as an adult is deemed unlikely.
The swift response from law enforcement and the collaboration between agencies underscored the gravity of the situation and the commitment to ensuring public safety in Houston's communities.
Related Article : Rising Trend: Teacher Shortage Crisis Grips US Education
