BOSTON, MA — The Boston Police Department is warning the public about a series of fraudulent charity solicitation incidents in which victims have lost more than $170,000.
Police said one to three male suspects have approached female victims in parking lots, claiming to collect donations for a deceased child or a related charity.
The suspects are described as Black males, ages 20 to 40, approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall, with long hair that may be braids or dreadlocks.
One suspect has a red tattoo above the left eye.
Police said 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.
There have been 11 reported incidents locally, totaling $170,700 in losses, with similar schemes reported nationwide.
Police have also received reports of two to four younger male suspects near South Station soliciting donations for a football team or selling candy.
These individuals have also displayed aggressive behavior and used card readers to obtain unauthorized funds, police said.
Police are advising residents not to hand over their phone or credit card to anyone and to verify any charitable organization independently before donating.
Anyone who is approached should create distance and report suspicious activity to police immediately.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Boston Police Department or call 911 in case of an emergency.
Anonymous tips can be submitted to the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS or by texting “TIP” to CRIME (27463).
