A prolific beggar from Nelson who was said to have “lost everything” over the last 18 months was fined by Pennine magistrates after police caught him asking people for money.
Daniel Nelson (31), of no fixed address, was made subject to an anti-social behaviour order earlier this year, banning him from begging. But the magistrates heard he had breached the ASBO numerous times.
On the latest occasion he was spotted by a police officer asking an elderly man and elderly couple for money, close to the Lord Nelson pub.
Mr Nick Dearing (defending) revealed Nelson, said to be sleeping rough, had lost everything over the last 18 months and was desperate. His relationship with his partner had broken, he no longer had access to his children and lost touch with his parents.
He was fined £50 plus a £20 victim surcharge but was detained in court for the morning session as payment.