How Criminals Really Hide Stolen Money: Bank Robberies and Beyond

Bank robbery may seem like the most straightforward way to acquire a large sum of cash, but the headaches and potential risks don't end with the initial heist. The real challenge lies in finding a way to hide the stolen money without attracting unwanted attention from law enforcement. In this article, we explore some of the strategies criminals have employed to hide their ill-gotten gains and the potential consequences of each approach.

Hiding Money After a Bank Robbery

In the aftermath of a bank robbery, the immediate question is often, "How do I hide this money?" Many criminals opt for creative and sometimes risky methods to conceal their illicit funds. Here are some of the most common strategies:

Method 1: Depositing Money in Small Amounts Over Time

One strategy is to deposit the stolen money into banks in small, frequent amounts. This technique ensures that the total doesn't raise suspicion. Criminals might purchase items with some of the money and sell them online, using platforms like eBay. With reduced visibility, they can avoid detection for a longer period.

Method 2: Using Cash and Burying It

Another approach is to bury the money in a secure location, such as a garden or a hidden spot. Since cash cannot be tracked, this method can be effective if the money is eventually spent. However, this method carries its own risks, such as forgetting the exact location or encountering legal troubles if discovered by authorities.

Method 3: Escaping to Another City and Using a Safety Deposit Box

For those who can flee the scene, hiding the money in a safety deposit box in another city is a popular choice. Banks typically do not inspect the contents of safety deposit boxes, making this a relatively secure option. However, moving to a new city and disposing of the cash or other forms of income (such as selling drugs) can introduce new challenges and risks.

Method 4: Distributing the Money to Undetectable Locations

A more scattered approach involves burying the money in various locations. This might involve burying some of the stolen cash and using a waterproof bag to avoid detection. However, this method requires ongoing effort to hide and eventually spend the money.

Historical Examples and Lessons

Historically, some criminals have used specific methods to hide their stolen money. For example, the late actor and comedian W. C. Fields reportedly opened bank accounts all over the country and deposited small amounts of money into each. When he grew older and lost track of his hiding spots, he couldn't locate his cash. This anecdote serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of both careful planning and note-taking.

The Dangers of Bank Robbery: Risk vs. Reward

According to criminal experts, one of the best pieces of advice is to never rob a bank. Bank robberies come with significant risks and minimal rewards. The typical bank robbery involves robbing a teller drawer, which usually contains less than $1,500. After paying for rent and groceries, any remaining funds are insignificant. Moving into the vault often requires a team and increases the risk of getting caught, even if the reward is more substantial.

Conclusion: A Legal and Ethical Approach

Beyond the criminal world, the general public is reminded that bank robberies are illegal and highly dangerous. Instead of finding ways to hide stolen money, law-abiding individuals should focus on ethical and legal methods to manage and invest their wealth. If you are in a financial crisis, consider alternative solutions such as leasing a safety deposit box or seeking professional financial advice.