Some people may have seen the two young men each holding a make shift sign soliciting donations for a young child's funeral. Next to them were two large plastic containers they used to deposit money donated for this needy cause. They stood at a major intersection off Lankershim Bl.
I watched them for a little while and numerous people in cars handed out money to assist this family at each red phase of the tri-light.
No adults were in the area with them so I became curious. I stopped to speak to these two young men. Neither lived in the area of North Hollywood or could even name a street here. Neither knew the location of where this young child lived who "supposedly" just passed away. They said It was their uncles daughter but they didn't know the uncles name or even a phone number to contact him.
People take advantage of people who want to do some good. It was a real money maker for them - while it lasted. It surprised me how young these two teens were, taking advantage of peoples emotions for such a worthy cause. Many anonymous people donated for this likely scam but we had no way to return any of the money.
The two young men carried the large plastic containers filled with cash and walked back towards the Subway entrance. Maybe they will use a small portion to purchase a one way ticket. MAYBE.
Any questions or concerns should be addressed to Officer Catalano at 32740@lapd.lacity.org
