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Despite a nationwide decline in bank robberies, Colorado stands out as one of the states where these crimes remain prevalent. Banking leaders express concern over a notable increase in heists, prompting calls for enhanced security measures.
Recent FBI statistics reveal that Colorado recorded 104 bank robberies in 2023, which places the state third in the nation, following California with 192 and Illinois with 116 robberies.
Jenifer Waller, the chief executive officer and president of the Colorado Bankers Association, acknowledged the state’s ongoing challenges with bank robbery rates.
“Colorado has consistently ranked high for bank robberies,” Waller noted. “We frequently compete with California and a few other states for the number one spot.”
After a steep decline in incidents post-2021, when Colorado experienced 191 bank robberies, recent trends point to a troubling uptick.
“We noticed a significant increase a little over a year ago,” Waller shared. “Some member banks have reported a slight rise in robbery incidents in the past few months.”
This unsettling trend resonates with law enforcement agencies across the state, particularly in cities like Aurora, where police responded to an armed bank robbery that highlighted the speed with which these crimes can unfold.
On September 24, officers were dispatched to a BMO Bank branch following reports of a suspect brandishing a weapon at a teller.
“The suspect entered the bank, approached the counter, displayed a firearm, and demanded cash,” an Aurora Police Department spokesperson explained.
The assailant escaped with approximately $1,000. Authorities later identified 41-year-old Matthew Procella as the suspect, whom they arrested three days later without incident, using a license-plate reader.
The Aurora Police Department indicated that while specific bank robbery data is not tracked separately, overall robbery rates in the city have dropped by 36.3% so far this year, alongside a significant 40% increase in arrests.
The FBI has not commented on the situation, citing the ongoing government shutdown.
During discussions about potential causes for the resurgence in bank robberies, Waller noted that the issue is complex and multi-faceted.
“I often wonder if the easy access to highways and interstates contributes to the prevalence of bank robberies here,” she posited. “However, I cannot pinpoint a definitive cause. Economic downturns could also play a role, a trend we have observed in the past.”
In response to rising robbery concerns, Colorado banks are proactively upgrading security measures to protect customers and employees. Many of these enhancements gained traction during the pandemic and have remained as part of an ongoing safety strategy.
“Banks are taking significant steps to ensure the safety of our customers and employees during a robbery,” Waller emphasized. “One effective measure has been locking bank doors, requiring customers to request entry in order to enhance security.”
In addition, banks are leveraging technology such as dye packs, advanced surveillance systems, and ongoing employee training. Some institutions have even opted to employ armed security personnel as a further deterrent.
Despite the alarming statistics, Waller noted that most bank robberies in Colorado are nonviolent.
“The majority of robberies, both in Colorado and nationwide, involve minimal violence, often simply being note jobs where no weapon is displayed,” she explained.
Nonetheless, Waller acknowledged that even these nonviolent thefts result in significant emotional distress.
“Bank robbery is not a victimless crime,” she stated. “Employees and customers alike feel a measure of stress, even during nonviolent incidents.”
While traditional bank robberies pose serious risks, the rise of fraud and scam incidents poses a growing threat. This includes check-washing schemes and organized crime groups targeting vulnerable individuals to cash fraudulent checks.
“I find it surprising that we are witnessing a resurgence of traditional check-washing tactics,” Waller remarked. “Law enforcement has determined that organized criminal activity is behind this trend.”
Moreover, Colorado is beginning to grapple with a dangerous crime phenomenon known as “jugging,” which has historically been more common in other regions of the country.
“We are starting to observe this trend in Colorado,” Waller noted. “Jugging involves individuals being robbed after they make a cash withdrawal. We encourage customers to remain vigilant and avoid leaving bank bags in their vehicles.”
Banks and law enforcement agencies are launching public awareness campaigns aimed at fostering situational awareness and promoting safe cash-handling practices.
Waller praised the collaborative efforts with the FBI and the Rocky Mountain Safe Streets Task Force, which play a crucial role in the fight against bank-related crime.
“The FBI provides invaluable assistance,” she acknowledged. “The Task Force excels at identifying and pursuing bank robbery cases, and we appreciate their robust support.”
Historically, around 80% of bank robberies are resolved within 24 months, although Waller could not provide updated statistics on current resolution rates.
For customers who find themselves in a robbery scenario, Waller recommends a straightforward approach.
“Comply with the robber’s demands immediately,” she advised. “Afterward, document everything you can remember without discussing it with others, to avoid influencing your memory. Remember, your safety is paramount, and do not attempt to intervene.”
As bank-related crimes continue to evolve, Colorado’s financial institutions remain committed to adapting their strategies, balancing technology, vigilance, and customer safety.
“The safety of customers and employees is always our top priority,” Waller asserted.
Although Colorado may not currently lead the nation in bank robberies, the rise of innovative criminal tactics and fraud schemes presents ongoing challenges that the state’s financial institutions are closely monitoring.
