DENVER (KDVR) — Several local police departments are warning residents about a growing national crime trend known as “jugging,” when someone watches a person at a bank or ATM and follows them until they can rob them.
The Greeley Police Department warned about this trend and said “jugging” is coordinated — it isn’t just someone waiting in an alley. The robbers will follow people to their next stop, and it could include breaking into someone’s car, holding them up or grabbing whatever they can. The Lakewood Police Department has also spoken about this crime and said the suspect demands money, often with threats of violence or assault.
Greeley police said you may not even realize you’re being targeted until it’s too late. However, there are ways to protect yourself.
How to protect yourself from ‘jugging’
The Denver, Lakewood and Greeley police departments said people should be aware of their surroundings when taking cash out and being discreet about the money.
Here are some safety tips from the police departments:
- Watch out for people paying extra attention to you while you’re at the bank or cash machine. Be aware of loitering vehicles near bank parking lots and watch out for vehicles that look like they’re conducting surveillance.
- Be discreet with the withdrawn cash by putting it in a purse, wallet or bag before returning to your vehicle. Don’t leave the bank with your cash on display.
- Vary your routine by switching up banking locations and ATMs, changing the route from the bank or changing the time to prevent robbers from learning habits.
- Contact police to report any suspicious behavior or alert bank security if you think someone is intending to commit a crime.
- If you feel like you are being followed, head to a well-populated public place or a police or fire station. Don’t confront them or “play hero.”
- Use digital options when possible.
While this is a growing trend across the country, it isn’t a huge problem everywhere.
In June, the Denver Police Department said they have received fewer than 25 reports of jugging since early 2024. That said, protective practices will keep those numbers down in Denver.