The Odessa Police Department recently had two reports of bank jugging. This occurs when a suspect or suspects observe bank/credit union customers entering and exiting the branch, using the drive-thru or accessing the ATM. The suspect(s) then follow the customers they believe are in possession of large amounts of cash and look for an opportunity to burglarize their vehicles or rob them directly.
• Be on the lookout for individuals backed into parking spaces, who do not exit their vehicle to conduct business.
• Be vigilant when using ATMs, as they typically target individuals using ATMs. Also, individuals leaving the branch should exercise caution as they could also be targeted.
• Be vigilant when arriving and departing. Be aware of your surroundings and don’t leave your car or the building if you observe suspicious vehicles parked in or around the parking lot.
• Conceal your money before you leave the bank/credit union.
• Don't openly carry bank bags, envelopes or coin boxes.
• Watch for people following you.
• If you think you are being targeted/followed, call 911 and keep the dispatcher on the line to describe your location, where you are headed, etc. and keep driving until a marked police car finds you.
• Don't leave a bank bag (hidden or not) in your car unattended.
• Make banking the last stop of your errands.
