Security

Baltimore ATM thefts on the rise

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July 9, 2020

ATM thefts are increasing in Baltimore and authorities believe it's due to the "low-risk and high-reward" of the crime, according to a report by Fox News.

The machines are not equipped with bulletproof casing which makes them an attractive target for thieves, according to the report.

Although many Baltimore stores have bulletproof barriers to protect employees and the register, ATM machines are often placed in common areas for accessibility, giving thieves easy access to remove the machine. The machines are also used to access food stamps.

"It started out probably as one crew, but I think word got out on the streets that this was a low-risk, high-reward thing," Baltimore Police Lt. Col. Kevin Jones said in the report.

In an effort to limit loss, store owners have taken to removing the cash from the ATM machines each night.

Police believe thieves bring tools with them on site, break off the locks and then lift the machine into a van or a truck, which is often stolen as well.

The thefts have primarily been in the city of Baltimore, but additional reports of ATM thefts have been made throughout Maryland.