Visitors to Seattle Warned of Fake Buddhist Monks

Residents in several large cities, including Seattle, say they are being harassed on their way to work by fake Buddhist monks.

While it is not uncommon for real Buddhist monks to solicit donations, these imposters shove jewelry or books in people's hands calling them gifts and then demand money to build a monastery. Unlike real monks, they are extremely aggressive and after being told no, or given less than the amount requested, they snatch back the "free gift."

Besides breaking laws forbidding aggressive panhandling, the con artists are also damaging the reputation of honorable religious figures. 

If you run into some in Seattle, don't give them money and feel free to report them to police.

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