Fake Jewelry Scam By Panhandlers Prompts Warning: Police

FALLS TOWNSHIP, PA —Police are warning the public to beware of panhandlers who are offering motorists fake jewelry for cash.

The Falls Township Police Department said the township and surrounding communities are having "chronic issues" with panhandlers.

"We want to warn the public to ensure their charity is not exploited," Sgt. Christopher Clark said.

The panhandlers solicit money through signs and flagging down motorists under the pretense of needing money for gas/food, police said.

In the scheme, two males wave motorists down and ask for gas money. They then attempt to trade motorists fake gold jewelry, claiming it is real, for money, police said.

During a search of a vehicle of three involved individuals Friday, police said they observed a large amount of fake gold jewelry.

Upon examination, their vehicle had a full tank of gasoline. One such vehicle being used is a silver minivan with Florida registration plates, police said.

Clark said police cited the subjects Friday for peddling/soliciting, however, they just moved to the next jurisdiction over.