The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 4 letter word SPIV
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
S
P
I
V
More clues leading to the result SPIV
- Dodgy dealer could get top brass upset
- Black-marketeer that would upset the elite
- Wide boy’s odds on girl getting rise
- Dodgy dealer important people returned to see
- Big shots turn over this rogue trader
- Shady type important people recalled
- Black marketeer dignitaries turned around
- Big shots turning up in Aussie lair once
- Sun’s leader, page 4, such a disreputable character!
- Petty criminal knocks over celebrities
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Petty criminal" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case petty criminal = spiv.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does SPIV mean?
SPIV noun- A smartly dressed person who trades in illicit, black-market or stolen goods.
- A flashy con artist, often homeless, who lives by his wits.
- In Scotland Yard usage, a low and common thief.
- A slacker; one who shirks responsibility.