San Diego police warn Lunar New Year cash withdrawals can increase risk of “bank jugging” thefts

A crime pattern tied to bank and ATM surveillance

San Diego police are warning residents and visitors to use added caution when withdrawing or transporting cash during Lunar New Year celebrations, citing risks associated with “bank jugging.” The term refers to thefts that begin with suspects watching customers at banks, credit unions, or ATMs and then targeting them after they leave—often when victims arrive at a second stop or park their vehicles.

Lunar New Year begins on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026. In San Diego, public celebrations and related cultural events have been scheduled across the region in February, drawing crowds and increasing routine cash handling for some families and businesses.

How “jugging” cases typically unfold

In “jugging” schemes described by law enforcement agencies in multiple U.S. jurisdictions, suspects position themselves in or near financial-institution parking lots to identify people who appear to have withdrawn cash. Indicators can include visible bank envelopes or deposit bags, or customers who count money in public or in their vehicles. After selecting a target, crews may follow the person to another location such as a store, restaurant, or residence, where they attempt a quick vehicle break-in or, in some cases, a direct robbery.

Police advisories emphasize that these crimes can occur quickly and may involve teams working together. The risk increases when cash or documents are left unattended inside a vehicle, even for a short period.

Why Lunar New Year can change risk conditions

Lunar New Year is traditionally associated with gifting cash in red envelopes and increased spending tied to family gatherings and community events. Public safety officials in Southern California have cautioned that the seasonal rise in cash withdrawals can create opportunities for opportunistic theft, particularly when customers make larger-than-usual withdrawals or consolidate cash for holiday-related purchases.

Safety steps police recommend for bank and ATM customers

• Stay alert inside the bank and in the parking lot; look for people lingering without a clear purpose and vehicles positioned to observe entrances or ATMs.
• Conceal cash and bank materials before leaving the bank or ATM area; avoid displaying envelopes or counting money in public.
• Lock vehicle doors immediately and keep valuables out of sight.
• Do not leave cash, envelopes, or banking paperwork inside an unattended vehicle, even briefly.
• If you believe you are being followed, avoid driving home; instead, go to a well-lit public location or a police station and call for assistance.

Lunar New Year begins Feb. 17, 2026, and San Diego-area celebrations throughout February are expected to draw large crowds and heightened activity around shopping corridors and community events.

Police urge residents to report suspicious activity around bank lots and ATMs promptly, particularly when it appears someone is watching customers rather than conducting business.