Police warn of rising ‘jugging’ crime trend across the nation
Police around the country warn of a new crime trend called “jugging.” Criminals will watch banks and ATMs, waiting for victims to withdraw money. Once they finish the transaction, they are followed to another location and robbed — often inside their vehicles.
“They are scoping, and they will watch you as you’re either coming in or going out of the bank, or watch you do ATM withdrawals, seeing how much you’re getting cash wise,” Cpl. Cecilio Reyes of the Mauldin, South Carolina, police department told Fox News.
KDFW reports Elmhurst, Illinois police recently arrested three men from Texas accused of pulling off a jugging-style robbery. They reportedly followed someone from a bank and snatched cash from their car in a parking lot.
Texas legislation makes jugging a distinct offense
The crime has raised enough attention in the state of Texas, forcing legislators to create a new law. House Bill 1902 designates jugging as a distinct criminal offense and proposes making it a state jail felony with enhanced penalties. If a suspect breaks into a vehicle, the charge could escalate to a third-degree felony, and if robbery is involved, it could become a first-degree felony.
“This was a bipartisan, one hundred percent across the board on that one,” said Texas House Rep. Christian Manuel. He noted that jugging is prevalent in major cities like Houston, San Antonio, Dallas and Austin, as well as smaller communities, and is on the rise.
“You’ve noticed this person has followed you consistently, and once the police searched and finds things like lockpicks in your car or glass breakers, it has to be something specifically to that crime,” Manuel said.
The bill now awaits the governor’s signature. If signed, it will become law on Sept. 1.
Police say awareness of your surroundings is key
- Don’t count your cash in public.
- Keep an eye out for people hanging around bank parking lots or drive-thru ATMs.
- If you think someone might be following you, don’t go home. Head to a busy public place or a police station.
- Vary your routine. Don’t always visit the same bank at the same time.
- If something feels off, trust your gut and report it.
Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
