West Warwick Police warning against panhandling scam

WEST WARWICK, R.I. (WLNE) — West Warwick Police are warning residents about an aggressive panhandling scam.

An organized group has been panhandling throughout the state using photos of sick child and indicating that they are collecting money for cancer treatment. The cardboard signs also have a Cash App image that can be used to transfer money from your phone.

The group will usually go to major intersections in various locations for a day or two to collect money and information from unsuspecting individuals before moving to other locations.

Further investigation into the group has determined that it is a scam and the panhandlers are putting the collected money into their own bank accounts.