From a reader: I was in the Target shopping center, as I was leaving there was a Non-US citizen woman & 2 kids holding up a sign Need money for food & gas, this is not the first time I have encountered this, not the same family but others like them begging for money, is this not illegal in most parking lots ????????? I happen to notice each time i have encounter them , they have cell phones, dressed nice and the kids are playing DS games, personally I think Target and the other stores should enforce the no soliciting law. If they are truly hungry there are many churches and others that will help them, thank you
First, I would contact the Target manager. He may not be aware of these people. Recently, the FPD arrested some beggars in the Walmart parking lot. So if the manager doesn't give you satisfaction, try the police.
Second, I'm not sure how an observer could tell if this family consisted of non-citizens or not. If they are here illegally, this arrest should be sent to immigration, but don't hold your breath for the federal government to do anything.
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If you see any families panhandling locally, take a photo and forward it to us for publication.
Shoalanda