Jugging Incidents Rise in Fulshear: Police Advise Residents on How to Stay Safe
Fulshear has seen an increase in "jugging," a crime where thieves follow individuals from banks or ATMs and break into their vehicles to steal cash and other valuables. Over the past weekend, two vehicles were targeted after their owners visited local businesses, HEB and Piada Italian Street Food, shortly after leaving a bank. In both incidents, money left inside the vehicles became a target for theft.
What is Jugging?
Jugging is a term used to describe a crime where perpetrators observe individuals withdrawing money from banks or ATMs and then follow them to another location to rob them. This tactic has been reported in various cities, including Houston, where police noted a 13% increase in jugging incidents from 2021 to 2022, with 812 cases reported in 2022. Then in 2023, the trend continued to rise, with Houston police reporting a 66% increase in jugging cases from 56 in early 2022 to 93 during the same period in 2023.
The Fulshear Police Department has issued a warning to residents, urging them to take precautions to avoid becoming victims of this crime. Captain Mike McCoy with the Fulshear Police explained, "Jugging is a crime of opportunity. Thieves are watching for people who leave banks or ATMs with valuables and then leave them in their vehicles. These crimes can happen in just seconds."
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How to Avoid Being A Victim of Jugging
To combat the rising trend, police recommend several key safety measures:
- Avoid leaving valuables, especially cash or bank envelopes, in your vehicle.
- Be aware of your surroundings when leaving a bank or ATM.
- Watch for vehicles or individuals who may appear to be following you.
- Always take your money and valuables with you, even if you're stepping away for a short time.
"If you notice someone acting suspiciously or following you, contact the Fulshear Police Department immediately," McCoy added. "Our community plays a crucial role in preventing these crimes, and together, we can make Fulshear a safer place."
Additionally, the Texas Department of Banking advises that residents should be discreet with their transactions and dispose of bank slips properly. If you are using an ATM, Fulshear residents are urged to shield the keypad with your hand or body while entering your PIN, and make sure to take your card and transaction receipt before leaving.
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How You Can Help
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity promptly and remain alert, particularly after handling large sums of money or valuable items.
- If you feel that a jugging threat is imminent, call Fulshear Police at 281-346-2202.
- Report jugging incidents to the FBI by phone at 800-225-5324 or online at tips.fbi.gov.
By adopting these precautions, the Fulshear community can reduce the risk of jugging incidents and protect themselves from financial losses.
For more information and updates, follow the Fulshear Police Department on social media or visit their website.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
