[OldManTime]

They have snookered so many into opening there wallets, last evening we sat and watched, in a 5 minute time frame, there must have been 10 cars that stopped and gave them money. We called the cops, but they must have a lookout, because within seconds they jumped into a van, and left, cops never saw them.

[graciegirl]

Originally Posted by OldManTime

They have snookered so many into opening there wallets, last evening we sat and watched, in a 5 minute time frame, there must have been 10 cars that stopped and gave them money. We called the cops, but they must have a lookout, because within seconds they jumped into a van, and left, cops never saw them.

Where did you see them?

How did they look? How many? You think they are gypsies or professional pan handlers?

[redwitch]

Is panhandling illegal? Did they wear a sign saying, "We're Gypsies. Please give us money so we don't have to swindle you?" Seems pretty presumptuous to label them as gypsies with no proof. Sorry, think I'm missing the point here.

[mrsanborn]

Did they have those little cymbals on their fingers?

[OldManTime]

Originally Posted by redwitch

Is panhandling illegal? Did they wear a sign saying, "We're Gypsies. Please give us money so we don't have to swindle you?" Seems pretty presumptuous to label them as gypsies with no proof. Sorry, think I'm missing the point here.

Yes, panhandling is illegal.

There are ordinances, and statutes that state panhandling is illegal

Police have confirmed Gypsies are in The Villages, they come down from the north as soon as cold weather sets in.

They have there scams down to a science, lookouts, getaway car, and timing, extremely profitable.

[manaboutown]

Thanks for posting your observances, OP. It helps us all remain aware of nefarious activities.

[jnieman]

I saw an entire family, father, mother and 2 small children holding signs in the Bealls/Lowes parking lot on 441. They were hiding under a tree as you come around the corner.

[DDoug]

Gypsy - a nomadic and free spirited person (webster) so they could be called gypay

[redwitch]

Originally Posted by DDoug

Gypsy - a nomadic and free spirited person (webster) so they could be called gypay

Yeah, but OP isn't talking about that type of gypsy. He's talking about a very specific group. Panhandlers are definitely back now that winter is coming and I'm sure Gypsies are, too. But I'm just not convinced they are both the same group and would hate to see one tarred with the other's brush.

[graciegirl]

Originally Posted by redwitch

Yeah, but OP isn't talking about that type of gypsy. He's talking about a very specific group. Panhandlers are definitely back now that winter is coming and I'm sure Gypsies are, too. But I'm just not convinced they are both the same group and would hate to see one tarred with the other's brush.

If the earring fits, wear it.