Justin Devon Hayes, Aggravated Bank Robbery, Texas 2013

Defendants Behind Bars for Humble Bank Heist

HOUSTON, TX - In a shocking turn of events, two Houston men have been convicted of their roles in a brazen bank robbery that left one man dead. Justin Devon Hayes, 23, and Demontray Ward, 21, both of Houston, entered guilty pleas to aggravated bank robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. The charges stem from a botched heist at the Regions Bank located at 7044 East FM 1960 in Humble.

On April 26, 2013, Hayes, Ward, and a third individual, who has since passed away, stormed the bank, waving loaded pistols and a shotgun. Ward brandished the shotgun, while the other two men wielded pistols. The trio demanded cash and threatened the tellers, only to become agitated when they realized the vault was equipped with a 10-minute timer.

A Houston police officer, responding to the scene, was disarmed by Ward. Outside, another officer witnessed the three men fleeing the bank and entering an SUV. As the officer attempted to confront them, the vehicle sped towards him, with Ward pointing a shotgun at the officer. In a split second, the officer fired, striking and killing the driver. Ward and Hayes were subsequently taken into custody.

The investigation into the bank robbery was led by the FBI Bank Robbery Task Force, comprised of personnel from the FBI, Houston Police Department, and Harris County Sheriff's Office. Assistant United States Attorney Jennie Basile is prosecuting the case.

U.S. District Judge Vanessa Gilmore accepted the guilty pleas and has scheduled sentencing for Spring 2014. At that time, Hayes and Ward face up to 25 years for the bank robbery, in addition to a consecutive seven years for the firearms charge. Both men will remain in custody pending their respective hearings.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by armed bank robbers. The swift action of law enforcement officials prevented further harm and brought the perpetrators to justice. As the investigation into this heinous crime comes to a close, the people of Houston can rest easier knowing that justice has been served.

Stay tuned to Grimy Times for further updates on this developing story.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdtx/pr/2-houston-men-convicted-humble-bank-robbery