Criminals targeting Maryland banks, ATMs, FBI warns

MARYLAND ( DC News Now ) — The FBI is warning customers in Maryland about a surge in armed robberies at banks and ATMs, especially in Anne Arundel and Prince George’s Counties.

In the first week of July, the FBI said at least 21 people in Maryland were victimized by “jugging.”

“‘Jugging’ refers to a crime in which a suspect, or group of suspects, targets customers believed to have large amounts of cash,” the FBI wrote in a press release Wednesday . “The perpetrators either rob customers while in the parking lot of a bank, credit union, or ATM or follow them to their next location.”

So far this year, the FBI Baltimore Field Office said it has received reports of around 84 jugging offenses, over half of which were reported in June and July.

The Anne Arundel County Police Department, Bowie Police Department and Prince George’s County Police Department stated they were partnering with the FBI to prevent similar crimes in the future.

The FBI advised customers to keep the following tips in mind:

• 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.
  • Pay attention to individuals backed into parking spaces who do not exit their vehicles to conduct business.
  • Don’t leave your car or the building if you observe suspicious vehicles in the parking lot or parked nearby.
• Report any suspicious activities immediately.
• 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 bag.
• Vary Your Routine: Avoid regular patterns in your banking habits. Change the times and locations you visit the bank.
• Drive Directly to Your Next Destination: If you suspect someone is following you, 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.

Anyone with information related to recent bank jugging incidents is asked to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL FBI or submit a tip anonymously through tips.FBI.gov.

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