The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Marina del Rey Station warned the public Thursday to be aware of anyone who might be spying on them at banks, credit unions and ATMs, then following them to their next destination to steal their property or cash, as part of a growing trend called “jugging.”
“Once a target is identified, often someone carrying a bank envelope or cash bag, the criminals follow them,” according to a statement from the Marina del Rey station regarding the so-called “bank jugging” cases. Suspects often wait for a victim to leave their vehicle unattended before breaking in and stealing money or other items, “or they might rob the victim directly.”
To avoid loss or worse, the sheriff’s department advises concealing cash or bank envelopes “to prevent displaying that you’ve made a withdrawal.”
The sheriff’s department also advises people to take notice of whoever is noticing them.
“Look around for anyone who may be watching while a transaction is being conducted,” officials said.
Other tips include varying one’s routine and avoiding heading straight home after making a withdrawal, not leaving cash unattended in a vehicle and checking the tires on one’s vehicle to see if they have been tampered with.
“Jugging suspects have been known to deflate or slash tires as a way to catch victims off guard,” according to the sheriff’s department.