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Bank jugging, also known as "jugging" or "jug and grab," is a growing problem in the United States, particularly in Texas. This illegal practice involves criminals who watch people make large deposits at banks or ATMs and then follow them to their next destination, such as a store or their home. The criminals then break into their vehicles and steal the cash that was just deposited.
While there is no specific crime in Texas called "jugging," the practice can still lead to criminal charges under various other crimes, including aggravated robbery, robbery, theft, burglary of a motor vehicle, and burglary of a habitation.
Aggravated robbery is a first-degree felony in Texas and occurs when a person, during the commission of a robbery, uses or threatens to use deadly force or causes serious bodily injury. The punishment range for this crime is 5 to 99 years or life in prison and a fine up to $10,000. For example, if a bank jugger follows a person who just made a large deposit, brandishes a weapon, and demands their money, they could be charged with aggravated robbery.
Robbery is a second-degree felony in Texas and occurs when a person, in the course of committing theft, uses or threatens to use physical force against another person. The punishment range for this crime is 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000. For example, if a bank jugger follows a person who just made a large deposit, physically grabs their cash, and threatens to use force if they don't let go, they could be charged with robbery.
Theft is a Class A or B misdemeanor in Texas and occurs when a person intentionally or knowingly takes the property of another without their consent. The punishment range for a Class A misdemeanor is up to one year in jail and a fine up to $4,000, while the punishment range for a Class B misdemeanor is up to 180 days in jail and a fine up to $2,000. For example, if a bank jugger follows a person who just made a deposit and steals their cash while they are shopping, they could be charged with theft.
Burglary of a motor vehicle is a state jail felony in Texas and occurs when a person enters a vehicle with the intent to commit a theft or another felony. The punishment range for this crime is 180 days to 2 years in a state jail and a fine up to $10,000. For example, if a bank jugger follows a person who just made a deposit, breaks into their car, and steals their cash, they could be charged with burglary of a motor vehicle.
Burglary of a habitation is a second-degree felony in Texas and occurs when a person enters a habitation with the intent to commit a theft or another felony. The punishment range for this crime is 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000. For example, if a bank jugger follows a person who just made a deposit, breaks into their home, and steals their cash, they could be charged with burglary of a habitation.
If you or someone you know has been charged with a crime related to bank jugging, it is important to seek the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney. As a Board-certified criminal defense attorney and former chief prosecutor in San Antonio, I have the knowledge and skills necessary to defend clients against these serious charges. If you need help, please do not hesitate to contact me, Brad Thornton, for a free consultation at 210-439-5627.
