The following is a synopsis of crimes reported from August 30, 2026 to September 5, 2026.
August 30, 2026
August 31, 2026
- Burglary (Vehicle)
- 2600 Block of Gardi Street - On August 31, 2026 at 1:30 AM, the suspect(s) opened the rear sliding window of the victim's truck and stole miscellaneous items. No arrest made. Video footage available. Temple DB follow-up.
September 1, 2026
- Grand Theft (Catalytic Converter)
- 1600 Block of Buena Vista Street - On September 1, 2026 at 2:00 AM, the suspect(s) stole the victim’s catalytic converter from a vehicle (Toyota Corolla). No arrest made. No video footage available. Temple DB follow-up.
- Grand Theft (Retail)
- 1450 Mountain Avenue (Harbor Freight) - On September 1, 2026 at 3:49 AM, the suspect entered the store and stole several miscellaneous items from inside. The suspect then fled from the location. No arrest made. Video footage available. Temple DB follow-up.
September 2, 2026
- Grand Theft (Catalytic Converter)
- 1800 Block of Capehart Avenue - On September 1, 2026 at 2:58 AM, the suspect(s) stole the victim’s catalytic converter from a vehicle (Honda CRV). No arrest made. No video footage available. Temple DB follow-up.
September 3, 2026
- Burglary (Vehicle)
- 2500 Block of Bloomdale Street - On September 3, 2026 at 1 AM, the suspect shattered the victim’s front passenger window and stole miscellaneous items from inside. No arrest made. No video footage available. Temple DB follow-up.
- Grand Theft (Vehicle)
- 2200 Block of Buena Vista Street - On September 3, 2026 at 12:36 AM, the suspect stole the victim's vehicle parked in front of the home. No arrest made. Video footage available. Temple DB follow-up.
September 4, 2026
September 5, 2026
Protect Yourself From Bank Jugging
Bank jugging is a type of theft where criminals watch people withdraw cash from a bank or ATM and then follow them to another location. They may steal money from an unattended vehicle or, in some cases, confront the person directly.
HOW IT HAPPENS
- The watch: Suspects may sit in parked cars or linger around banks, drive-thrus, and ATMs, looking for people carrying bank envelopes, bags, or large amounts of cash.
- The follow: They may follow a customer’s vehicle after leaving the bank, sometimes to a home, shopping center, restaurant, or another stop.
- The theft: If cash is left in a vehicle or the person steps away from it, thieves may quickly break in and take the money.
SIMPLE WAYS TO STAY SAFE
- Keep cash out of sight: Secure your money before leaving the bank, and avoid counting or displaying cash in public.
- Take it with you: If you have cash or a bank envelope, bring it inside with you rather than leaving it hidden in your vehicle.
- Stay aware: Pay attention to your surroundings and be cautious of unfamiliar people or vehicles lingering around financial institutions.
- Trust your instincts: If you believe someone may be following you after leaving a bank, do not drive home. Instead, go to a police station or another safe, busy location and contact law enforcement.
A FEW EXTRA PRECAUTIONS
While Duarte is a close-knit community, criminals can travel throughout Los Angeles County and neighboring areas looking for opportunities. Recent law-enforcement warnings have highlighted tactics such as:
- Vehicle tampering: In some cases, thieves have reportedly damaged or flattened a vehicle’s tire while the victim is inside the bank, then followed them and approached when they stop to investigate the problem.
- Targeting cash carriers: Older adults and small-business owners who regularly carry noticeable amounts of cash may be particularly attractive targets.
If you are withdrawing a large amount of cash, consider making the bank your
last stop and heading directly to your destination.
Avoid unnecessary stops for gas, shopping, or other errands.
For business owners who regularly make cash deposits or withdrawals, consider varying your schedules and routes when practical. Being aware of your surroundings and avoiding predictable routines can help reduce opportunities for criminals.
The best protection is awareness. Stay alert, keep your cash secure, and if something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts.
As always, if you SEE something, SAY something!
