Man arrested over major online puppy scams
Authorities are urging all Aussies to be aware of a new major puppy scam that is targeting those wanting to get a new pet during the coronavirus pandemic.
Heavily armed officers with bulletproof vests stormed a home at Oxley Park in Western Sydney and arrested an alleged fraudster early on Wednesday morning.
Detective Superintendent Jason Pietruszka told reporters that the man falsely advertised the sale of Staffordshire bull terriers on Gumtree.
He also advertised his scam on an animal rescue website.
"We believe through our inquiries that the dogs never existed — they were simply photos taken from various websites that he used as bait to get people interested," he said.
At least eight people from Queensland, Western Australia, New South Wales and the ACT allegedly deposited up to $2,000 into various bank accounts.
"He would then say the dogs are on their way — when the delivery was about to happen, he would then ask for a remaining balance," Detective Superintendent Pietruszka said.
Police said the hopeful and excited pet owners refused to pay the remaining balance until the pup arrived at their home — however that never happened.
"Once he realised further money was not forthcoming, he would then cut off all contact and then the victims couldn't get in touch with him," Detective Superintendent Pietruszka said.
The man has been charged with 16 fraud offences, although investigators believe he could have scammed 50 more people and are urging them to contact Crime Stoppers.
"The prices of dogs have skyrocketed recently … people are not only seeing what is a cute dog, they are also seeing a price that is too good to be true and ultimately it is," Detective Superintendent Pietruszka said.
"People are struggling, they are looking for that companionship and, unfortunately, we have a person who is willing to take advantage for his own financial gain," he said.
"Hopefully the courts find that as disgusting as we do."
The man has been refused bail and will face Penrith Court on Thursday.
Animal lovers are strongly urged to meet with well-established breeders in person first before they begin giving over their money.
"Don't hand over money until you are 100 per cent sure that the person exists, the animal exists and that it's a legitimate transaction," Detective Superintendent Pietruszka said.
"If it seems to good to be true, then it probably is," he said.