FBI Baltimore Warns Criminals Targeting Bank And ATM Customers

By FOX45
Posted on 07/11/24 | News Source: FOX45

Baltimore, MD - July 11, 2024  - FBI Baltimore issued a warning about the increase in armed robberies at banks and ATMs in Maryland.

At least 21 bank and ATM customers have been victimized by these crimes in the first week of July, according to FBI Baltimore.

A majority of the crimes have taken place in Anne Arundel and Prince George’s Counties.

The FBI and other local law enforcement partners are investigating a surge of armed robberies, known as “jugging” crimes, at financial institutions in Maryland.

“Jugging” refers to a crime where a suspect, or group of suspects, targets customers believed to have large amounts of cash. The suspects either rob customers while in the parking lot of a bank, credit union or ATM or follow them to their next location, FBI Baltimore said.

So far in 2024, the FBI Baltimore Field Office has received reports of around seven dozen jugging offenses with more than half of those incidents reported in June and July.

“The Anne Arundel County Police Department is grateful for the assistance of our federal, state and local partnerships as we focus intently on the violent criminals involved in the wave of armed robberies being committed against our innocent, hardworking community members throughout the region,” said Anne Arundel County Chief of Police Amal E. Awad. “The perpetrators of these violent robberies, known as “juggings”, prey on people who are trying to live out their daily lives peacefully. We will continue to dedicate the necessary resources to prevent these criminals from attacking innocent people and when they do, diligently and relentlessly use our investigative techniques to identify, arrest and bring them to justice. We share in the outrage of the many people and their families who have survived these terrifying encounters left feeling victimized, broken and traumatized at the hands of these heartless, lawbreaking criminals."

The FBI urges the public to remain vigilant and keep the following safety 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 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.

If you have any information related to recent bank jugging incidents, please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL FBI or submit an anonymous tip through tips.FBI.gov.