Bank jugging is an increasingly popular crime where criminals watch banks and ATM machines for people withdrawing cash. The criminals then follow the victim and break into the victim's car while they are away to steal the withdrawn currency. This regional crime has recently started occurring in our city.
Here are some actions you can take to prevent becoming a victim of bank jugging:
• Be familiar with your surroundings. Suspects typically watch the bank and/or ATM machine to see what their potential victim is withdrawing. If you observe a person loitering near a bank of ATM machine, do not confront them. Call the police.
• Look in your rearview mirror to see if someone is following you from the bank/ATM. If you suspect someone is following you, keep driving, call the police and follow their directions.
• Do not flash your cash. If you withdrew money, keep it out of sight.
• Take your cash with you. Criminals are hoping you leave the cash in the car for an easy theft.
When in doubt, be safe and call the Palm Beach Gardens Police Department at 561-799-4445.