A woman who persistently begged in Sunderland city centre has been banned from doing so - and could be jailed for five years if she breaches an order.
Complaints were received from Northumbria Police, Sunderland BID, Nexus, and city centre visitors about Erica Purvis who is living in a privately rented property and has access to funds so does not need to beg.
Sunderland City Council launched an investigation and Purvis was offered referrals to relevant support services but would not engage with them.
