James Russell Davis, a member of the "Chesapeake Bandits," a group linked to a series of armored truck heists across the Los Angeles region, was sentenced to nearly 14 years in federal prison for his role in a 2022 robbery.
Davis, who acted as a lookout during the armed robbery that netted the group over $160,000, pleaded guilty to charges of interference with commerce by robbery and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. U.S. District Judge Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha also ordered Davis to pay $166,640 in restitution.
The Chesapeake Bandits earned their moniker due to authorities' belief that they planned their meticulously executed heists at a residence on Chesapeake Avenue in Los Angeles' West Adams neighborhood.
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Their modus operandi involved ambushing security guards at gunpoint, zip-tying them, and absconding with bags of money.
Davis and his accomplices were captured on surveillance footage casing a credit union in Hawthorne before returning weeks later to rob the same armored truck driver servicing ATMs. The robbery involved the use of an AR-style rifle and a semi-automatic handgun, with Davis maintaining a lookout position while his partners carried out the heist.
This sentencing marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the Chesapeake Bandits' activities. Authorities believe the group is responsible for at least four armored car robberies between February 2022 and February 2023, with incidents occurring in Inglewood, South L.A., and Hawthorne.
Davis's half-brother, Deneyvous Hobson, also faces charges in connection with the robberies, with a trial date yet to be scheduled. At least five other individuals are suspected of being part of the Chesapeake Bandits, but as of now, the majority of the crew is either incarcerated or deceased.
Law enforcement officials have commended the efforts of the FBI and other agencies involved in the investigation, highlighting the importance of collaboration in combating organized crime and ensuring public safety. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by armored truck drivers and the need for continued vigilance in protecting valuable assets.
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