Jackson police said they responded to multiple complaints of aggressive panhandling at the Columns Shopping Center last Saturday. In a social media post, the department said individuals were trying to force customers to buy candy, as reported by the City of Jackson.
Jackson police responded twice in one day after reports of people trespassing and handing out candy to patrons. Officers said one adult suspect tried to run but was caught and also had an outstanding warrant, leading to an additional charge of evading arrest. Another adult and two juveniles were also arrested and charged with criminal trespassing. Police said three of the four suspects, all from the Memphis area, had been arrested in Jackson earlier this year for similar incidents. The department issued a reminder about scams targeting the community, as stated by the City of Jackson.
According to the City of Jackson on their Facebook page, the Jackson Police Department is asking residents and shopkeepers to report any fraudulent activity following a recent aggressive panhandling incident. Officials are encouraging the community to share information that could help the investigation by calling 731-425-8400.
