The Tampa Police Department is investigating a bank jugging theft that occurred this month, which may be part of a larger criminal operation between Texas and Central Florida. “Bank jugging” is a term used when criminals target people who withdraw cash from banks or ATMs. These criminals watch for individuals leaving with bank envelopes or bags, then follow them to steal the money.
According to local law enforcement, the suspect followed the victim from a bank on W. Kennedy Blvd. after the victim withdrew money. The victim then parked at a nearby restaurant in the 2100 block of W. Kennedy Blvd.
The suspect broke into the victim’s truck through the front passenger window and stole the cash, which had been left in the center console.
The suspect appears to be a black male, approximately 18-25 years old, with pierced ears. He has a medium build, short black hair, and can be seen wearing a blue disposable mask, white hoodie, and yellow and black gloves. He was seen driving a white Kia Sportage.
Tampa Police Detectives are working with their counterparts at the Houston Police Department (Texas) as they believe the suspect may be part of a group that travels between the Houston and Tampa Bay areas committing similar crimes.
If you can help identify this suspect, please call Tampa Police at 813.231.6130 or contact Crimestoppers of Tampa Bay at 800.873.TIPS.
The Tampa Police Department encourages the community to be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid becoming a bank jugging victim. Some safety tips provided by the Tampa Police include:
- Not displaying large sums of cash in public.
- Varying your routine when visiting a bank.
- Being alert for suspicious individuals loitering around banks.
- Depositing large sums of cash promptly.
- Considering the use of a night deposit box.
- If followed, drive to a well-lit, populated location, and call the police.
