Man poses as deputy in Craigslist scam

KISSIMMEE, Fla. – "Impersonating an officer? That's a big deal," said Twis Lizasuain, with the Osceola County Sheriff's Department.

The scam preys on people who respond to relationship ads on social websites like Craigslist. Recently, two people responded to an ad, and received a message back from the ad's poster, claiming to be an Osceola County Sheriff's Deputy.  The response claims that the ad that the victim responded to was an attempt to solicit a minor.

"The victim was contacted by the suspect who claimed a warrant could be issued for his arrest because of the information being looked at online," Lizasuain explained.

OCSO said this same scam has been used on other social media sites as well. So far, two victims have come forward, both notifying the Sheriff's office before sending along a payment. In both cases, the same deputy was impersonated.

"Hew was very surprised," Lizasuain said. "The deputy doesn't know why his name became associated with this."

Osceola County Sheriff's Office reminds residents to:
•Never give out personal information when you respond to an online advertisement.
•If the caller asks you for money, do not make arrangements to provide payment.
•The Osceola County Sheriff's Office does not contact individuals via the Internet or phone calls when a warrant has been issued or to resolve a warrant.
•Citizens may call the Sheriff's Office to verify warrant information.