‘Jugging’ Crime on the Rise in Colorado: What You Need to Know
Colorado police are warning residents about a rising crime trend known as “jugging,” a tactic that targets unsuspecting people after they withdraw cash from banks or ATMs. The Lakewood Police Department issued a public alert on October 13 after multiple recent incidents in the metro area.
So what exactly is jugging? According to Lakewood police, it’s when a suspect follows someone who has just made a cash withdrawal—often from a financial institution or ATM—and then robs them at their next stop. Victims are sometimes attacked directly, or their vehicles are broken into when they briefly step away, especially if a cash envelope or bag is visible.
A recent case in Lakewood highlighted how quickly jugging can happen. A local resident shared on Reddit that after withdrawing $4,000 from a bank, they made a short stop at a Belmar retailer. When they returned to their car, the window and glovebox were smashed — and the cash was gone. The Lakewood Police Department even responded to the Reddit thread, confirming they’re investigating and that this may be part of a larger organized pattern in the area.
Fortunately, the victim wasn’t harmed, but police say that’s not always the case — some jugging crimes involve direct confrontation or violence.
To help residents protect themselves, the Lakewood Police Department shared several safety tips:
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Stay alert for vehicles loitering around banks or ATMs.
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Never leave cash in your vehicle, even for a short stop.
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Watch for cars that appear to be following you.
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If you suspect you’re being tailed, drive to a populated or well-lit area, or head straight to a police or fire station.
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Be discreet with cash and avoid displaying bank envelopes or deposit bags.
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Call 911 immediately if you see suspicious activity or believe you’re being targeted.
Police added that jugging suspects often use ordinary cars that don’t stand out, making vigilance even more important. Even small cash withdrawals can make someone a target — since criminals don’t know how much money you’re carrying, only that you’ve left a bank.
Authorities encourage everyone to stay cautious, especially during the upcoming holiday season when theft crimes tend to increase.
