ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) — Antiguan police are warning people to be aware of a scam being carried out by people seeking to obtain money in the name of murdered nine-year-old Chantel Crump, whose body was found on March 15.

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 pretences, claiming to represent charities of community causes that do not exist.

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

Antiguan police said that “while numerous legitimate organisations perform essential work in our communities, it’s important to acknowledge that scammers exploit public goodwill to accumulate funds for their own benefit”.

They said such actions not only take advantage of generous individuals but also erode confidence in legitimate causes.

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

Non-compliance will result in appropriate legal action being taken against violators.

A 20-year-old woman, Angela Mejia, has since been charged with the child’s murder and remanded in custody after making an appearance in the Magistrate’s court.

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