Case:  24-2050766
 
Date:  Tuesday, July 23, 2024
 
Time:  12:40 p.m.
 
Location:  7300 block of Inspiration Drive
 
Suspect (arrested):  Christopher Phillips, Black male, 22 years of age

On Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at approximately 12:40 p.m., Austin Police Department officers responded to a call reporting a robbery in the 7300 block of Inspiration Drive. APD Robbery Unit Detectives responded and processed the scene.
 
Preliminary investigation revealed that Christopher Phillips, 22 years of age, surveilled bank customers and targeted an 80-year-old, Austin community member. Phillips followed the victim home from the bank and brutally attacked the him as he attempted to enter his residence.
 
Believing the victim withdrew a large amount of cash, Phillips stole the victim’s wallet and damaged his doorbell camera.
 
Thanks to the excellent work from officers from the Charlie 200s, APD’s Violent Crimes Task Force, APD’s Air Unit, The University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) and detectives from APD’s Robbery Unit, Phillips was arrested within hours of the robbery taking place.
 
The Austin Police Department would like to remind everyone to be aware of vehicles that loiter in or near a bank parking lot and any vehicles that appear to be conducting stationary or mobile surveillance. Be mindful of any vehicles that appear to be following you.
 
Tips to help avoid becoming a victim of jugging:
 

• Before leaving the counter/ATM after receiving cash, secure it in a different bag (other than the small zipper cash bags or envelopes utilized), such as a briefcase or purse
• Lock your car doors when you get into your vehicle
• If you believe you are being followed from a financial institution for any length, please call 911 or drive to the nearest police station, fire/EMS station.
• Speak with security at your bank to see if they can assist you with large withdrawals or if they have any safety suggestions when withdrawing a large amount of cash.

Anyone with any information should contact APD's Robbery unit at 512-974-5092. You may submit your tip anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling 512-472-8477.