On Thursday, authorities announced the arrests of multiple suspects believed to be involved in a string of jugging, where thieves target people leaving banks with large sums of cash.
MORE ON THAT INVESTIGATION: Multi-agency task force arrests dozens in Houston-area jugging robberies
Houston police are alerting residents to the rising crime trend.
Criminals often watch customers as they make withdrawals, then follow them to their next destination to strike. In some cases, thieves break into vehicles to steal the cash.
More violent incidents involve physical confrontations and robberies.
The Houston Police Department’s Robbery Division has reported an increase in jugging incidents over the past few years, with criminals frequently targeting residents in affluent neighborhoods.
To help prevent jugging crimes, police urge residents to take extra precautions. They advise bank customers to leave the area quickly after making cash withdrawals and avoid lingering in parking lots. Spending time in the car to count or organize cash can make individuals easy targets.
Authorities also recommend using ATMs in well-lit, secure areas and shielding PIN entries. Residents should conceal large sums of cash and stay alert to their surroundings.
If someone suspects they are being followed, police advise avoiding driving home. Instead, they should head to the nearest police station or public place to seek help.
Houston police urge anyone who witnesses suspicious activity or believes they are being followed to report it immediately.
Tips for Protection
1. Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Remain vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs. Scan your surroundings for suspicious individuals loitering nearby or vehicles that seem out of place. Trust your instincts; if something feels off, take precautionary measures.
2. Avoid Patterns: Criminals often observe routines. Vary your banking habits, such as the time of day you visit the bank or the routes you take after making withdrawals. Breaking predictable patterns makes it harder for perpetrators to target you.
3. Secure Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is locked and valuables, including cash, are out of sight. Park in well-lit areas with high visibility to deter potential thieves. Consider installing security features such as alarms or immobilizers for added protection.
4. Report Suspicious Behavior: If you notice individuals behaving suspiciously around bank premises or ATMs, alert bank staff or law enforcement immediately. Reporting suspicious activity can help prevent potential jugging incidents and protect others in the community.
5. Feel like you’re being followed?: Immediately call 911 or pull into your nearest police station.
