FBI and Florida Law Enforcement Warn About Rising 'Jugging' Crime: Just Because You Made it Home Does Not Mean You're safe with Your Withdrawal
Fort Lauderdale, FL. - The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and law enforcement agencies across Florida have issued stern and dire warnings about a disturbing rise in a new type of crime known as 'Jugging'. This crime trend is causing significant financial loss and seriously risks public safety.
Jugging is a premeditated crime where perpetrators surveil banks and ATMs, watching for customers who appear to be withdrawing substantial amounts of cash. The criminals then follow the unsuspecting victims to their next destination—often a home or business—and rob them of the money, sometimes using force. Criminals know there are many cameras and people around Banks so they follow their victims to a less croweded and less secure areas.
What is Jugging? 'Jugging' refers to a form of robbery in which criminals, often working in teams, target unsuspecting bank customers they believe have withdrawn large amounts of cash. The criminals watch their victims make a large withdrawal, follow them, and wait for the right time to steal. This crime typically occurs in banks, credit unions, check-cashing businesses, or ATM parking lots. In some cases, the criminals may follow their victims to a different location, like their homes or supermarkets, before robbing them.
Once a target is selected, the criminals follow the victim to their next location. The theft often occurs when the victim is distracted, such as while entering a home or business. In some cases, the perpetrators use force or the threat of violence to obtain the money.
How Common is Jugging While exact figures are difficult to come by, law enforcement agencies across Florida report a significant increase in jugging incidents. In the past year alone, multiple jurisdictions have seen a surge in reported cases, with some areas experiencing a 20-30% increase. The FBI has taken notice, issuing a warning to financial institutions and the public to be aware of this emerging threat.
The Rise of Jugging in Florida In Jacksonville, the Sheriff's Office has reported multiple occasions where someone stole hundreds of thousands of dollars through jugging at various banking institutions in Duval County. Similarly, in Naples, the Collier County Sheriff's Office has advised the public on best safety practices in light of several cases of bank jugging in the area.
How Does Jugging Work? Jugging typically involves a team of 2-4 individuals who work together to target a victim. Here's a common scenario:
Surveillance: Thieves identify a potential victim withdrawing a large amount of cash from a bank or ATM.
Follow: The perpetrators follow the victim, often in a vehicle, to their next destination.
Distraction: One or more team members create a diversion, such as bumping into the victim or asking for directions, while another steals the cash and valuables.
Escape: The thieves quickly flee the scene, often using a getaway vehicle.
How to Protect Yourself Given the rising trend of this crime, it is crucial to take proactive measures to protect oneself. Here are some preventative measures you can take:
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Always be vigilant when withdrawing or depositing money from a bank or ATM. Look around for anyone who appears suspicious or is loitering in the area.
Conceal Your Cash: When leaving the bank, ensure your cash is not visible. Place it in a secure, inconspicuous location such as a pocket or a bag10.
Vary Your Routine: Avoid regular patterns in your banking habits by changing the times and locations you visit the bank.
Drive Directly to Your Next Destination: If you suspect you are being followed, drive to the nearest police station or a crowded, well-lit area and call 911.
Avoid Distractions: Do not engage in activities that might distract you, such as using your phone, until you are in a safe place.
Report suspicious activity: Inform law enforcement if you notice suspicious behavior or individuals lurking around financial institutions.
Law Enforcement Response The FBI and Florida law enforcement agencies are working together to combat jugging. Increased patrols around financial institutions, surveillance cameras, and community outreach programs aim to prevent and investigate these crimes.
The FBI and local law enforcement agencies are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities immediately. Remember, your safety is paramount, and the money is not worth your life.
Thank you for reading this article. I would appreciate hearing what you think. Please hit the LIKE, SHARE, and FOLLOW buttons.
How about just getting a few dollars out, and keep it moving instead of tying up the ATM for 15 minutes, drawing attention to yourself, doing major banking.
Aly Kash
07-30
Shit the guvment steals from us everyday and yet no citizens have banded together to change shit.
Get updates delivered to you daily. Free and customizable.
It’s essential to note our commitment to transparency:
Our Terms of Use acknowledge that our services may not always be error-free, and our Community Standards emphasize our discretion in enforcing policies. As a platform hosting over 100,000 pieces of content published daily, we cannot pre-vet content, but we strive to foster a dynamic environment for free expression and robust discourse through safety guardrails of human and AI moderation.
Local News
