Parking Scam Rips Off Victims Across Hove and East Grinstead
Police have issued a fresh appeal after a crafty conman tricked a victim in Hove on May 9. Since then, scores more have fallen prey, losing hundreds – sometimes thousands – of pounds from their bank accounts.
The Scam: How It Works
The scam follows a clear pattern. The suspect approaches victims at parking machines, claiming an enforcement officer caught their vehicle on camera and they must buy a new ticket.
- He distracts them and steals their bank card at the pay machine.
- He then insists the machine has swallowed the card and victims must wait up to 30 minutes for its return.
- Meanwhile, the thief uses the stolen cards to make unauthorised purchases.
Latest Attack at Queen Victoria Hospital
The latest victim was hit in the Queen Victoria Hospital car park in East Grinstead. Detectives believe the man in the pictured suspect can help crack the case.
The described suspect is aged 20-30, of Middle Eastern appearance, about 5’4” tall, slim build, with short black hair and large black-rimmed glasses.
Police Plea: Help Catch This Parking Scammer
Anyone with info is urged to contact the police online or call 101, quoting reference number 1293 of 09/05. Don’t let this crook slip through the net!
