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Begging beneficiary convicted of fraud

Publish Date
Wed, 22 Feb 2017, 10:27AM
A Hastings beggar has been convicted of fraud (file)
A Hastings beggar has been convicted of fraud (file)

Begging beneficiary convicted of fraud

Publish Date
Wed, 22 Feb 2017, 10:27AM

UPDATED 2.24PM Police say it's not unusual for them to prosecute beggars who are asking for money but don't need it.

The comment comes after a Hastings beggar was convicted of fraud for begging for food and shelter - while on a benefit and living in a house.

Frank Lovich was charged with 16 nuisance offences, including fraud, after a member of the public, who knew his true background, reported him to police.

Police said the prolific beggar was pretending to be homeless, while sitting in the Bay City Plaza mall in Hastings with a sign begging for money for food and shelter.

They said he was receiving $380 a week from Work and Income and has a home in Hastings.

A police spokeswoman said this case is not a reflection of a targeted police campaign against begging.

The Ministry of Social Development said it relies on beneficiaries to be honest when they're earning a side income from begging.

A spokesperson for the Ministry said it aims to provide people with the assistance they require, based on their financial position.

But the ministry said it also relies on clients to be honest about their income, including income from legal or illegal begging.

Lovich’s lawyer, Antony Willis, said it would be unfair to Frank to comment until he is sentenced in April.

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