SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine (NEWS CENTER) -- South Portland Police are investigating a Craigslist scam involving a rental property on Grandview Avenue. An arrest has already been made in the case, and now police are asking other potential victims to come forward with more information to aid the investigation.
Police say they received two separate reports from victims claiming they thought they responded to an ad on Craigslist that was fake. After further investigation, police arrested 26-year-old Lisa Hinerman Thursday and charged her with two felony counts of theft by deception.
After looking at the apartment, police say the victims gave Hinerman cash to cover a deposit on the rental property. The victims did further investigation on their own and later realized Hinerman didn't actually have rights to rent the apartment.
Hinerman was arrested when she agreed to meet with one of the victims Thursday and was instead met by police. Authorities say the case serves as a good reminder to always be aware of potential Craigslist scams.
South Portland Police say the total amount of money lost in the case is upwards of $1,800. Any other potential victims or anyone with more information is asked to contact the South Portland Police Department.
The department has an anonymous tip line which can be accessed by dialing 347-4100. You can also email the department at sppdtips@southportland.org.
