The 3 strikes law was intended for unrepentant criminals like this. Lock him up and throw away the key.

This guy is throwing his life away. He should get involved in politics so he can con people legally.

Don't allow a con man - bully - to prey on your natural courtesy or helpfulness! I worry that some are raised to "always be polite" or "always be meek" (some of us women raised by highly conservative parents)- do what you're told, etc.
While common sense tells us to be skeptical at times, con men or women apparently have worked hard to hone their criminal skills and they use these in criminal and abusive fashions.
You do NOT have to give money or help ANY criminal and cause yourself any harm.
If it doesn't feel right - instinctually - get away.
Better yet, avoid getting involved/in discussions with questionable people with wild heatstring-pulling stories. There are legit public resources to help people genuinely down on their luck, etc.
Don't care if the person yells at you or whatever.
Reminds me a bit of "The Gift of Fear," a valuable book by Gavin de Becker (spelling?) concerning saving oneself (especially women) when in danger by LISTENING to your instincts/gut that usually give you signals to get away NOW, and NOT permitting criminals to use your natural politeness so that YOU are harmed/conned/injured/robbed/killed. This is serious stuff.

Unfortunately, these kinds of people aren't usually obvious to start, they sweet talk people. It's very difficult to know the difference between them and someone legitimate. The difference is time: con men don't have that kind of long-term patience. Don't be afraid to help people you know well, but if someone has just swept you off your feet, be wary...