HOUSTON – A Houston Heights resident is speaking out after falling victim to a bank jugging incident, calling for increased security and faster police response amid a rise in these types of crimes across the city.
“Bank jugging” involves thieves watching people withdraw cash from ATMs, following them, and waiting for an opportunity to strike — often when the victim leaves money inside their vehicle.
READ: How to spot and avoid bank jugging suspects
“Our crooks are watching people at ATMs, seeing them withdraw cash, and following them, hoping they’ll stop somewhere,” said Harris County Precinct 1 Constable Alan Rosen. “Unfortunately, that’s exactly what happened here.”
What happened
The recent bank jugging incident happened on Nov. 23 at the Wells Fargo bank at 235 W. 20th St.
65-year-old man John Finta said he withdrew $1,000 from the ATM and then drove next door to the Kroger grocery store. Despite parking in the front row near the entrance, when he returned to his SUV, its window was shattered and the cash stolen.
“I parked right in front of the entrance, thinking it would be safe,” he said. “But when I came back, my SUV window was shattered, and the money was gone. I feel violated and let down by Wells Fargo, Kroger, and law enforcement.”
The man said he called 911 immediately but claims Houston police officers failed to respond until five hours later, only calling him back by phone. Harris County constables arrived quickly and are now handling the investigation.
Investigators have viewed surveillance video of a silver Chevrolet Impala with paper license plates believed to be connected to the crime. A clear image of the suspect’s face was also captured.
“Sometimes these suspects are difficult to track if they’re undocumented or using false identities,” Rosen said. “But we’re optimistic about solving this case.”
Rise of bank jugging incidents
Rosen noted that similar crimes tend to increase around the holidays. He said there’s a strong possibility the suspect has committed other jugging incidents in the area.
The victim said he’s frustrated by what he sees as a lack of urgency from police and businesses. He said Kroger’s store manager acknowledged that car break-ins happen frequently but declined to increase security.
Since the incident, the victim has been patrolling parking lots himself, hoping to spot the suspect’s vehicle — a dangerous practice that Rosen strongly discourages.
“It’s dangerous. You don’t know if these criminals are armed,” Rosen warned. “Let law enforcement handle it. Call us if you suspect someone is following you.”
Rosen urged the public to be vigilant, especially during the holiday season.
“When you walk out of a store or an ATM, scan the parking lot,” he said. “Cover up your PIN code when entering it. Keep cash on your person, and don’t leave money or valuables in your car.”
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Harris County Precinct 1 Constable’s Office.
