Credit: Tom Sofield/LevittownNow.com
Falls Township police are warning of panhandlers soliciting money and attempting to rip off locals.
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Falls Township police and those from surrounding towns are reporting “chronic issues” with “Romanian panhandlers” who are begging for money as part of a scheme.
The local problems come weeks after Pennsylvania State Police warned of so-called “Romanian transnational criminals” that led to an influx of crime reports recently across the state.
Falls Township police Detective Sgt. Chris Clark said the panhandlers are soliciting money using signs and flagging down drivers. They tell the drivers they need money for gas and food.
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“In the scheme, two males wave motorists down and ask for gas money. They then attempt to trade the motorist fake gold jewelry, claiming it is real, for money,” Clark said.
Officers stopped one of the vehicles belonging to the group and found a “large amount” of fake gold jewelry, Clark said.
Despite the group pleading for money for gas, officers found a full tank of gasoline in the minivan with Florida plates, according to Clark.
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Three people were cited for peddling and soliciting on Friday, but Clark said the group just moved onto another town.
“We want to warn the public to ensure their charity is not exploited,” the police official said.
The criminals frequently have their families with them “in newer high-end or luxury out-of-state vehicles” when they have been spotted, according to state police, and the stories they have used to solicit money have included hungry children, a sick family member, or being late for a business meeting.
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To help prevent Pennsylvania residents becoming victims of these criminals, state police urged that the following safety tips be followed:
- Never feel pressured to purchase jewelry or other items by someone claiming to be down on their luck.
- Remember that if something seems too good to be true, it likely is.
- Ask anyone who is trying to sell jewelry about its origin and brand, and demand an appraisal of the piece.
- Never allow a stranger to accompany you to an ATM if you are being encouraged to retrieve money.
- Contact law enforcement immediately and do not approach anyone attempting to flag down motorists while standing on the side of the highway.
- Monitor your bank accounts for suspicious activity.
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