|
|
 |
| |
Ban for beggar in a suit
A NOTORIOUS beggar whose smart appearance helped him make up to £600 a day from unsuspecting passers-by has been banned from Camden.
Benedict Baines Potter, who was known as “suitman”, was served with an anti-social behaviour order (Asbo) at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.
Camden Council’s counsel Abi Kotun told the court that Mr Baines Potter, 38, from Watford, had been found numerous times in possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia. According to a British Transport Police officer, he had been seen threatening someone with an uncapped needle.
Ms Kotun claimed Mr Baines Potter had also been seen buying drugs and had admitted being a heroin user. She told the court that, since 1991, he had 24 convictions for 41 offences in Camden.
Mr Baines Potter arrived 15 minutes after the order was served on him, claiming he had gone to the wrong courthouse.
He said he was receiving medical treatment for drug addiction, and added: “I was not sleeping rough. I have never sold or taken drugs on the street and I have sought help from a clinic in Watford.” He admitted begging, but said: “All I have ever done is politely ask for some help.”
Outside the court, Camden’s Asbo co-ordinator Ian Walker said: “He has actually begged off me twice. When I saw him the first time he said he’d lost his money but 24 hours later he was still there.” |
| |
|
|
|
