At a. Wednesday, a woman told police she had been in contact with a person who indicated he was renting a house on Lafayette Street. The woman told police she had the place checked out and discovered it was a scam before she paid any money.
She said during all correspondence with the "owner" of the apartment, he indicated he was in Africa, and he said he would mail her the keys once she sent him money. Police said these details initially tipped the woman off that there was a scam. She told police the listing was flagged on Craigslist and it appeared it had been removed. The woman was told she did a good job checking the place out before spending money. Authorities said there was no way to track the suspect down.
A Salem Patch reader also reported someone posted a rental ad for his home on Derby Street in December. The reader said his home is actually for sale, and he reported the person who put up the ad impersonating him was claiming to be a clergy member.
The Salem Police were alerted. Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts. Aubry Bracco , Patch Staff. Sports 21h. Schools 1d.
