‘Tax’ takes on new meaning in London

Press, 24 February 1987, Page 32

‘Tax’ takes on new meaning in London

By ROBIN CHARTERIS in London “Taxing” is the latest form of street crime in London. It happens when a mugger takes half or more of his victim’s money, depending on how rich he looks, and then tells him he has been "taxed.” So far, the bizarre Robin Hood-style thefts are mainly committed on young male West Indians, but the police fear they may spread throughout the community. Unlike the outlaw of Sherwood, the perpetra-

tors are not known for generosity with their illgotten gains. “The crime is based on the feeling of some members of the public that

cash and property are to be shared, particularly if they don’t have any themselves,” a North London detective told reporters. "A typical ‘tax’ situation would be for a mugger to hold somebody at knifepoint and tell him or her to empty pockets or purse. “If the victim had £4O, the mugger might take £2O and leave the rest of the cash with the victim, telling him or her, “You’ve been taxed.” “You are more likely to get taxed rather than properly mugged if you don’t look too well off,” the detective said.

Seven men were acquitted at the Old Bailey recently of murder after allegedly stabbing to death a "taxer” in London.