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Union Police Warn About Panhandling Scam

Union Township (Union)

Police in Union Township are warning residents about a scam involving a panhandler who was spotted asking for money for her “baby.”

According to authorities, Street Crimes Unit officers found this woman walking in and out of traffic on Vauxhall Road near Hilton Avenue attempting to scam passing motorists.

Police say when the woman was approached she claimed to be from Romania but was currently living in Queens. She added that she was asking for cash for her baby, but officers pointed out that she had a $500 purse, jewelry and a new iPhone X and did not appear to be in critical need of cash.

According to officers, their investigation ultimately revealed that she and several other women got dropped off to panhandle throughout New Jersey.

Police issued her a ticket for impeding the flow of traffic and received a township summons for soliciting without a permit.

Authorities remind residents that although it is nice to be charitable, it's not a good idea to donate to someone on the side of the road with a sign.

Residents who see anyone in need of help should call police headquarters so officers can respond and assess.

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