Community Alert - Bank Jugging 

June 23, 2026 – Ventura County Sheriff's Office officials announce bank jugging crime increase.

This term is used to describe a crime where suspects specifically target individuals who withdraw cash from a bank or ATM. The suspects often loiter near financial institutions, observe potential victims withdraw large sums of cash, and then follow them to steal the money; typically by breaking into their vehicles or confronting victims directly.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office wants to remind the public on steps to take to reduce the chances of becoming a victim of this crime trend.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Be discreet when handling cash in public.
• Avoid counting money outside the bank or ATM.
• Vary your routines when visiting banks or ATMs to avoid being predictable.
• Stay alert for anyone loitering nearby or following you after a transaction.
• Trust your instincts. If something feels off, leave the area and call 911.
• Secure your cash immediately after withdrawing it and avoid leaving it unattended in your vehicle.

Safety Tips:

• Be aware of your surroundings when leaving a bank.
• Avoid large cash withdrawals.
• If you suspect you are being followed, drive to a safe location, such as a police station and call 911 immediately.
• Avoid leaving valuables unattended in your vehicle.

View video here.

Source: Ventura County Sheriff's Office