[05 SEP 00] CRIMES, FIRES & ACCIDENTS
Don't Cry For Me, You Little Beggar

Not all beggars are what they seem, with a fake calling at homes in North Warwickshire and conning people as he starts to cry.

There have been five reports of him knocking at homes in Bedworth over the past fortnight. 

The young man asks for money to visit his terminally ill father in hospital in Leicestershire.

People have fallen for the story and have handed over cash.

On Sunday, a resident gave him £21 and drove him to the station after believing what police have called his ‘well-rehearsed story’.

Pc Chris Smith at Bedworth police said:

“We believe this lad is operating a clever but illegal deception, and we would urge anyone who is approached by anyone fitting his description not to hand over any money.

“His story seems plausible and he is even able to cry on demand to make him appear genuine, but he is not.

“We do not want him taking money off any more people in Bedworth and would urge anyone who thinks this man may have called at their house to contact Bedworth police.”

His is said to be in his late teens or early 20s, 5ft 9in tall, with short black hair and a sallow complexion.

He has been seen wearing a blue or green anorak. Anyone with information should call Bedworth police on 024 7664 3111.