Prince George RCMP remind residents to be aware of suspicious persons attempting to solicit money with elaborate scenarios following reports of similar incidents.
Cpl. Craig Douglass, media liaison officer, said in two recent incidents a lone male approached a person in a parking lot or heavy pedestrian traffic area, saying he needs propane but has no money because his car was broken into and his wallet was stolen.
When people reject his plea, the man appeals to the emotional side of the potential victim by stating, "Why are there no nice people in Prince George?"
Or he may infer an extreme urgency in order to obtain money before potential victims can think the scenario through.
The suspect is described as Caucasian, in his late 40s or early 50s with dirty blonde hair and moustache that reaches to the bottom of his jaw bone. He is about five feet, 10 inches tall, weighing about 175 pounds, and may be wearing overalls.
Douglass advises when someone in need of help approaches, encourage the person to call the RCMP if they are able, or make the call for them if they are not able.
"If there is a legitimate reason for the request, police are here to help and can provide referral to many agencies and resources that could assist the requester. A person needing legitimate help will not likely reject this suggestion," he said.
"In such situations, refrain from providing money. The more money the scammer receives, the more this person will run the scam and the more victims there will be."
Anyone with information about such scams or any criminal offence, is asked to contact RCMP at 250-561-3300 or anonymously call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
