Bank Jugging occurs when a thief parks outside of a bank and watches patiently as customers go in and out. During the busy holiday season—when people are depositing cash, withdrawing money for gifts, or handling year-end expenses—suspects often look for anyone who comes out with a bank bag, coin box, or bank envelope that appears to contain a large amount of cash. They may also target individuals leaving shopping destinations with high-value purchases during the holidays. Suspects then follow the victim and burglarize their car or confront them directly, sometimes even following them home.
Most often, the crime occurs at the next destination after leaving the bank or shopping location, such as a restaurant, grocery store, retail shopping center, or the victim’s home. With holiday errands and packed schedules, criminals rely on distractions, heavy traffic, and crowded parking lots. When the victim attempts to leave their vehicle, they may be robbed.
How to Prevent Bank Jugging During the Holidays:
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially if something seems unusual as you enter or leave the bank or a shopping location.
- Conceal bank deposit bags, coin boxes, envelopes, and high-value purchases when coming and going.
- Vary your routine when possible, and avoid making multiple stops after visiting the bank or completing holiday shopping.
- If you believe you are being followed, call 911 or Harris County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at (281) 463-6666.
- Always take your bank bag, envelope, or purchased items with you into your next destination—never leave them hidden in your vehicle.