Police in Hampstead have warned of a con-artist pretending to be a robbery victim in and around South Hill Park in order to steal money from kind-hearted passers-by.
The man, thought to be a “slim white male in his 50s” and described as a smart dresser with a gap in his tooth, was mentioned in the annual crime report for the Hampstead ward, and Sgt Hounsell has asked the public to be vigilant.
READ MORE: Hospital staff presented with Covid-19 tribute tile by ‘people of HampsteadHe told this newspaper: “He spins the exact same story every time – he has been robbed of his money, the police are out looking for the suspects, but he needs between 20 and 50 quid to get home.
“He presents with a convincing fake wound to the head.”
Sgt Hounsell added: “I’m not asking people to assume every robbery victim is a con artist but to be vigilant when people in the street ask for money, especially if it matches the above.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here