In a recent spree of criminal activity dubbed "jugging," bank and ATM customers in Maryland are experiencing a heightened wave of armed robberies. According to a report from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, there have been at least 21 victims in the first week of July alone, predominantly in Anne Arundel and Prince George’s Counties.
"Jugging" involves suspects observing and then following bank customers they believe have withdrawn large amounts of cash, either robbing them near the bank premises or at their next stop. The FBI Baltimore Field Office has noted around seven dozen such offenses so far in 2024, with a significant number occurring in June and July. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno stated in one press release, "These assailants are brazenly targeting bank and ATM customers, posing a significant risk to the public of both physical and financial harm."
Law enforcement agencies across the state are collaborating to address the troubling increase in these violent acts. "The perpetrators of these violent robberies, known as “juggings”, prey on people who are trying to live out their daily lives peacefully," Anne Arundel County Chief of Police Amal E. Awad told the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The collective efforts among federal, state, and local agencies aim to crack down on this ruthless trend and bring a sense of security back to the community.
The FBI has issued advisory tips to help the public stay safe. Individuals are urged to remain aware of their surroundings when at the bank, to conceal any cash withdrawn, to vary their routine when visiting banks, and to directly proceed to their destination to reduce the risk of being followed. Anyone with information related to these incidents is encouraged to contact the FBI. Deputy Chief Zachary O'Lare of the Prince George’s County Police Department emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, "Together, we intend to identify and arrest all criminals targeting victims who are simply stopping at a bank," as mentioned by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
