A BEGGAR playing on people's generosity has been discovered to already be on more than £1,000 a month benefits.
The person was reported to police after pleading for cash from passers-by in Taunton town centre this morning (Saturday, August 13).
A tweet by Avon and Somerset Police in the town centre says the culprit was "located, witnessed, reported and moved on".
It added: "Research shows they already receive over £1000 in benefits."
The tweet posted by ASP Taunton Central this morning.
Police officers in the town have in the past worked with charities in a bid to stamp out begging and associated anti-social behaviour.
There have been instances of a number of beggars over the years pestering passers by for spare change simploy to buy drink and drugs.
Police have advised people that handing over money could do more harm than good - they recommend instead making a donation to a local charity such as Taunton Association for the Homeless, Open Door and the Foodbank.
Anyone spotting someone begging is asked to call police on101 and persistent beggars are being warned they could face prosecution.
Begging is an offence under The Vagrancy Act 1824 (section 3) and could lead to a fine of up to £1,000.
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