A disturbing and violent trend of targeted robberies, known as “jugging,” has emerged in Houston, with poker players being the primary victims.
Law enforcement officials have reported that at least 20 players have been robbed in recent weeks, typically moments after leaving private poker clubs with their winnings.
The incidents have created a climate of fear within the local poker community and players in Houston and have prompted urgent warnings from both police and poker media outlets.
The attacks have been concentrated around several of the city’s private poker rooms, with the Lucky J Social Club on Richmond Avenue being specifically noted as a location from which victims have been followed.
In these “jugging” incidents, criminals identify and follow their targets from the venue to a more secluded location before committing the robbery.
One particularly violent case highlighted the severity of the situation, when four suspects were arrested after robbing and assaulting a 70-year-old player.
The subsequent police pursuit ended in a dramatic car crash as the suspects attempted to flee, underscoring the high-risk nature of these crimes.
In response to this alarming spree, law enforcement is strongly urging poker players to take enhanced security precautions.
Recommendations include using the escort services that many clubs offer to walk players safely to their vehicles, refraining from carrying large amounts of cash, and being constantly aware of one’s surroundings when leaving a game.
The poker community is being reminded that their visible success at the tables can unfortunately make them attractive targets for criminals, making personal security a paramount concern.
