Crossword Genius

Beggars once covering this crime (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

arson

'this crime' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'beggars once covering' is the wordplay.
'covering' indicates a hidden word.
'ARSON' is hidden in the letters of 'beggars once'.

(Other definitions for arson that I've seen before include "Malicious fire-lighting" , "It may get you in court" , "Criminal burning of property" , "A burning crime" , "Incendiarism" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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