BPD releases photos of alleged strong-arm charity scammers

""In these cases, one to three male suspects have approached female victims in parking lots, claiming to collect donations for a deceased child or a related charity," according to the release. Boston police shared photos of several suspects, described as Black men between the ages of 20 to 40 years old who have long hair and stand about 5 feet 10 inches tall. One suspect has a red tattoo above his left eye, according to police."

""Suspects have used mobile payment devices and aggressive tactics, often handling victims' phones or credit cards before charging unauthorized amounts between $4,000 and $50,000," police said. In three such incidents last month, police alleged the men pressured their alleged victims into giving money by credit card before charging them more than the agreed-upon amount. Boston police say they've also received complaints about two to four younger men soliciting donations for a football team or selling candy near South Station, according to the release."

""These individuals have also displayed aggressive behavior and used card readers to obtain unauthorized funds," police said, reminding community members to verify charitable organizations before donating, avoid handing over phones or credit cards to strangers, and report suspicious activity to authorities. Boston police urged anyone with information on similar scams to call 911 in an emergency or provide tips"

There have been 11 reported incidents in Boston resulting in $170,700 in losses. One to three male suspects have approached female victims in parking lots, claiming to collect donations for a deceased child or a related charity. Suspects used mobile payment devices and aggressive tactics, often handling victims' phones or credit cards before charging unauthorized amounts between $4,000 and $50,000. In three incidents last month, victims were pressured into giving money by credit card before being charged more than the agreed amount. Incidents occurred near a Whole Foods on Harrison Avenue, a Walgreens on East Broadway, and around South Station. Police urged verification of charities, avoidance of handing over phones or cards, and reporting suspicious activity.

Read at Boston.com