Criminals Targeting Bank, ATM Customers In These MD Counties: FBI

BALTIMORE, MD — The FBI's Baltimore office is investigating a series of armed robberies targeting ATM and bank customers in Prince George's and Anne Arundel counties.

According to the FBI, the crime is called "jugging" and happens when a suspect or group of suspects targets customers believed to have large amounts of cash. The suspects typically rob customers while in the parking lot of a bank, credit union, or ATM, or follow them to their next location.

So far in 2024, the FBI's Baltimore office has received about seven dozen reports of jugging offenses with more than half the incidents reported in June and July.

Most of the crimes have occurred in Anne Arundel and Prince George’s Counties, authorities said.

“These assailants are brazenly targeting bank and ATM customers, posing a significant risk to the public of both physical and financial harm," FBI Baltimore agent William DelBagno said in a statement. "We will continue to pursue criminals with all our available resources and remain determined to eradicate violent crime from our streets."

The Anne Arundel, Prince George's and Bowie police departments are assisting the FBI with the investigation.

"The perpetrators of these violent robberies... prey on people who are trying to live out their daily lives peacefully," Anne Arundel County Chief of Police Amal Awad said in a statement. "We will continue to dedicate the necessary resources to prevent these criminals from attacking innocent people."

The FBI urged the public to remain vigilant and remember the following safety tips:

• Be aware of your surroundings: Always be vigilant when withdrawing or depositing money from a bank or ATM.
• Pay attention to people backed into parking spaces who do not exit their vehicles to conduct business.
• Look around for anyone who appears suspicious or is loitering in the area.
• 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 when 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 anyone has information about recent jugging incidents, contact the FBI at 800-CALL FBI or submit an anonymous tip through tips.FBI.gov.