Police in Antigua warn against people seeking donations in the name of murdered school child

ST. JOHN'S, Antigua, CMC - Police are warning people to be aware of a scam being carried out by persons, seeking to obtain money in the name of nine-year-old, Chantel Crump, whose body was found on March 15, a few days after she had been picked by a woman when leaving school.

Angela Mejia, 20, has since been charged with murder and remand to prison after making an appearance in the Magistrate's court.

In a statement, the police said it is advising the public against making any donations in the name of the deceased child, reiterating it is aware that individuals are soliciting donations under false pretenses, claiming to represent charities of community causes that do not exist.

The police said that "while numerous legitimate organizations perform essential work in our communities, it's important to acknowledge that scammers exploit public goodwill to accumulate funds for their own benefit".

The police said these actions not only take advantage of generous individuals but also erode confidence in legitimate causes.

It warned that obtaining chattel, money, or valuable security under false pretenses is a criminal offense, urging the public to refrain from engaging in this unlawful practice.

The police also warn that non-compliance will result in appropriate legal action being taken against violators.

Earlier this month, the government announced that it will be covering the funeral expenses of Crump, whose death has shocked the nation with religious groups condemning it as a "senseless" killing.

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