Brighton fraud sparks warning to online sellers (From The Argus)
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Brighton fraud sparks warning to online sellers
12:05pm Thursday 5th July 2012 in News By Ben Parsons, Crime Reporter
Police are warning people who sell their belongings online to check they have the payment in the bank before people collect the goods.
Chris Edkins, 26, from Brighton, handed over his £800 iMac computer believing he had been paid through PayPal.
After it was collected, he found the credit to the account had been returned, leaving him unpaid for the computer.
He had recorded the registration number of the man who collected the computer, and police made an arrest.
PC Richard Valder Davis said: "Thanks to the details he gave our investigation led to a man being arrested in South London.
"He denied being involved in the fraud but within a day of his release he provided the victim with £800 cash."
Mr Edkins said: "I can't thank the police enough for everything they've done.
"I really appreciate it. I was in utter shock when they handed me £800. I'm over the moon."
PC Valder Davis said: "I would urge people to be careful before they hand over their goods. They should ensure they have been paid by checking with their bank."
