How to make sure your donated clothes go to the right place [Video]

Giving away used clothes for a second life feels like an act of charity – and it often is. But it’s become more complicated.

A W5 investigation has discovered allegations that organized crime players are muscling in on legitimate charities to get access to their surprisingly lucrative clothing donation bins.

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Some of these, according to police reports and court records, may be willing to use violence against their rivals to get that clothing cash.

At stake are tens of millions of dollars in clothes that can be resold, or in some cases exported into the international market.

How can you know whether your clothes are going to support charities – or end up fuelling potentially organized crime?

1. Consider donating directly

Give your clothing directly to people you know who are in need.

The lock being cut off of …