LAREDO, Texas – A former bank manager at a Laredo branch of BBVA Compass Bank has been convicted of embezzlement and misapplication of funds, U.S. Attorney Kenneth Magidson announced today. 

Patricia Garcia Munoz, 50, of Laredo, Texas, entered a guilty plea today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Scott Hacker to one count of embezzlement of funds and one count of misapplication of funds from BBVA Compass Bank which occurred during her tenure as a branch manager of a BBVA Compass Bank branch in Laredo. At the guilty plea just a short time ago, she admitted to taking $101,845.86 without authorization from the certificate of deposit accounts of one of BBVA Compass Bank’s customers. She admitted she stole the money and that she chose that particular customer’s accounts because he never physically visited the bank and, therefore, she thought he would not discover the theft.

As part of her plea agreement, she has agreed to pay restitution to the bank in the amount of $101,845.86. 

Munoz will remain on bond pending her sentencing which will be set in the near future. At that time, she faces up to 30 years in prison and fines of up to $1 million.

Munoz no longer works for BBVA Compass Bank.

The investigation was conducted by agents with the United States Secret Service with the assistance of BBVA Compass Bank. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D.J. Young.