Holiday Shopping Safety: The Growing Threat of “Jugging”

The Rising Trend of “Jugging” Targets Unsuspecting Shoppers

As the holiday season approaches, law enforcement agencies across the United States are issuing warnings about a crime trend known as “jugging.” This predatory practice involves criminals following victims from ATMs, banks, or stores with the intent to steal their cash or recent purchases. According to the FBI, jugging incidents typically surge during the holiday season when shoppers are more likely to carry substantial amounts of cash or expensive gifts. Bill Stanton, a retired NYPD officer, describes jugging as essentially a “slang term for crimes of opportunity.” He likens these criminals to predators waiting at watering holes, except in this case, they’re lurking near ATMs and banking facilities, watching for vulnerable targets. The practice has become increasingly common across the country, with numerous high-profile incidents making national headlines and leaving victims injured or traumatized during what should be a festive season of giving.

Recent Incidents Highlight the Dangers of Jugging

The alarming reality of jugging was underscored by a recent incident in Houston, Texas, where a 70-year-old man was robbed at gunpoint while using an ATM in a Walmart parking lot. According to local reports, the assailant forced the victim to withdraw cash and then shot him even after he had complied with the demands. The elderly man was rushed to a hospital where he remains in critical condition. This violent episode followed another Houston incident from April, where a man was followed from a Wells Fargo ATM to a car wash before being confronted by an armed robber. In yet another case just a day earlier, surveillance footage captured two suspects breaking into a man’s vehicle after he had visited a Chase Bank, stealing a cash envelope from the center console while the victim was inside a gas station convenience store. These incidents illustrate how jugging criminals carefully observe their targets, follow them to secondary locations, and strike when victims are least expecting it.

Organized Jugging Operations Lead to Serious Consequences

Some jugging operations involve sophisticated criminal organizations rather than just opportunistic individuals. Earlier this year, a significant case resulted in 33-year-old Johnny Juwan Clark receiving a 120-month federal prison sentence after pleading guilty to participating in an ATM robbery. According to the Department of Justice, Clark was already on supervised release for a previous robbery when he and three accomplices forcibly robbed an ATM technician in Midlothian, Texas. Operating as part of a Houston-based criminal group called the “Hiram Clarke Money Team,” Clark admitted to following the technician to multiple locations before attacking him at a Chase Bank ATM. The robbers stole approximately $248,000 in cash, later using their ill-gotten gains to purchase luxury items including an S-Class Mercedes-Benz and jewelry. This case demonstrates how jugging has evolved beyond simple opportunistic theft to include coordinated operations targeting individuals handling large sums of money, with criminals willing to risk severe legal consequences for substantial payoffs.

Economic Factors and Holiday Vulnerabilities Fuel the Trend

Experts suggest that economic conditions and the holiday shopping season create a perfect storm for jugging crimes. “It’s more of a want issue,” explains Stanton, “And if the economy isn’t going in their favor, it’s more of a motivating factor – that, and the holidays.” Criminals specifically target individuals who appear distracted or unaware of their surroundings. “If you give the impression that you are prey… it’s only a matter of time,” Stanton warns. “It’s not a matter of if, but when. Just because it’s never happened before, doesn’t mean that you’re untouchable – it means that you’re lucky.” The holiday season presents particular risks as shoppers often carry more cash, make larger purchases, and may be distracted by festive activities or shopping lists. Additionally, crowded shopping areas provide cover for criminals to observe potential victims without drawing attention to themselves. As people rush to complete their holiday shopping, they may become less vigilant about their surroundings, creating more opportunities for jugging criminals to identify and follow vulnerable targets.

Prevention Strategies for Protecting Yourself

Security experts and the FBI recommend several precautionary measures to reduce the risk of becoming a jugging victim, particularly during the holiday season. Before approaching an ATM or exiting your vehicle in a parking lot, take a moment to scan the area for suspicious individuals who might be watching you. The FBI specifically advises people to vary their banking habits rather than establishing a predictable routine that criminals can track. When receiving cash from an ATM or making purchases, conceal the money immediately rather than counting it in public view. “Don’t make it easy for them,” Stanton advises. “Take the money, put it deep in your pocket and go right to the car. Don’t be fanning the money, counting it out while you’re on the phone.” Being aware of your surroundings and avoiding behaviors that advertise you’re carrying cash or valuable items can significantly reduce your risk of being targeted. Additionally, consider using electronic payment methods when possible to avoid handling cash in public, and try to shop during daylight hours in well-populated areas.

Safety First: How to Respond if Targeted

Despite taking precautions, anyone could potentially become a victim. If confronted by a jugger, safety experts unanimously recommend prioritizing personal safety over property. “If you’re in the middle of it, give it up,” Stanton emphasizes. “Whether the money is from the ATM, that can be replaced – not your life. Toss the money and run the other way if you’re able to.” This advice recognizes the potentially dangerous nature of these confrontations, as evidenced by the shooting of the 70-year-old victim in Houston. As Americans engage in holiday shopping, Stanton offers a sobering reminder: “While you’re doing your holiday shopping, so are the bad guys. While you’re looking for that deal or to buy that expensive item, they’re watching you and are like, ‘Oh, I like that person’s taste. That’s what their gift is, and it’s going to be my possession.'” Maintaining awareness of this reality can help shoppers remain vigilant during what should be a joyous season. By taking reasonable precautions and staying alert, holiday shoppers can significantly reduce their risk while still enjoying the festive spirit of the season.