It's hard to sell domestic violence

While on my way to the Open Mic last night I passed a street performer/near vagrant. As I walked by I got the a pitch for money, with the memorable opening line of "Can you help me out man, I just did six months for domestic violence". I gave him a dose of the evil eye (look at a spot an inch above his eyes, try it, it works) and he backed off rather quickly.

Why would he think that would be a good way to get money out of anyone? Then again, thinking probably isn't a strong suit.