Hull city centre beggar handed CBO

A man who tricked members of the public whilst posing to be homeless in Hull City Centre and surrounding areas has been handed a three-year criminal behaviour order.

Over the course of a six-month period, whilst receiving support from the Hull Central Neighbourhood Policing team, local housing authority, health services and a number of partnering agencies, Burnham would travel across areas of Hull City centre posing to be homeless.

Whilst posing as a homeless, James Burnham persistently begged the local community, accepting gifts in the form of cash, food and drink from generous members of the public.

Following his appearance at court on Tuesday 6 February James Burnham, aged 43, of Great Union Street, Hull must not:

1. Beg within Kingston upon Hull
2. Sit or kneel on any pavements, pedestrianised areas, and public walkways within Kingston upon Hull
3. Sleep or lay in any area accessible to members of the public within the exclusion zone highlighted on the map provided
4. Place any hat, bowl, bucket or other containers or vessel in front of or near to yourself in such a manner as to attract passers-by to place money in it
5. Remain in and or on any premises when requested to leave by the owner or their lawful agent. Must leave immediately when requested

Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Dave Lonsdale said: “As a force we are extremely committed to creating long term solutions to the problems faced and making our communities feel safer.

“Alongside partnering agencies, my teamwork with residents from a variety of backgrounds to do everything we can to support them, by and providing early intervention and diversion schemes.

“Hull has some of the most vibrant communities within the area and we will continue to everything we can to make a positive difference.

“If you have concerns about crime, speak to your local officers, contact us via our website or social media (@humberbeat) or call our non-emergency 101 line”.