Three suspected of multiple jugging robberies caught in act

IRVINE, CA – Authorities have detained three men suspected of participating in a trend of criminal activity known as “bank jugging,” where individuals are targeted after withdrawing cash from banks. Irvine police had the suspects under surveillance, capturing their arrest on video outside a Seal Beach bank.

The suspects were identified as Maurice James, Samuel Poli, and Tinge Von Matthews. They were apprehended after being linked to a series of car burglaries in Irvine, where victims had just withdrawn money. Police monitored the suspects as they moved between banks in Orange County, ultimately catching them in the act.

In Seal Beach, the suspects followed a victim, smashing a car window to grab a bag of cash. Detectives intervened, detaining all three individuals, who are from Texas.

A pivotal element in the investigation was the use of license plate reading technology. Initially, the suspects’ vehicle had Texas plates, but they allegedly switched them with stolen plates from a car in Irvine. The rightful owner of the stolen plates reported the theft to the police, which played a crucial role in tracking the suspects.

By entering the stolen plates into their system, police could connect the vehicle to the burglaries. This led to surveillance and the eventual arrest of the suspects in Seal Beach.

Authorities emphasize the importance of reporting stolen license plates promptly, as it can significantly aid in criminal investigations. The technology and collaborative efforts of law enforcement were key in resolving this case.

The suspects are now in custody, facing charges related to the bank jugging incidents in Irvine and Seal Beach. The investigation continues as police work to determine if these men are connected to other crimes in the area.

Residents are urged to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity, especially around banks, to help prevent further incidents.