Edgecombe County Deputies Warn Residents of Online Rental Scams
Edgecombe County, N.C. — Authorities are cautioning residents about online scams following a recent incident involving a fraudulent rental listing.
The Edgecombe County Sheriff’s Office reported that a local resident fell victim to an online scam on Craigslist. The scam involved a rental advertisement for a property in the county, where the suspect, identified as Stephanie Folkenroth, falsely claimed to be the property owner.
According to deputies, the victim responded to the ad, believing it to be legitimate. Folkenroth reportedly went to great lengths to make the transaction appear genuine, including forging and printing a lease agreement. Trusting the documentation, the victim paid both a deposit and the first month’s rent in advance, expecting to move into the property as agreed. However, upon attempting to move in, the victim discovered that Folkenroth was not the rightful owner of the home and had no authority to rent it out.
Deputies are actively seeking Folkenroth’s whereabouts as part of their investigation. Charges against her are said to be forthcoming. The Sheriff’s Office has urged anyone with information about Folkenroth’s location to contact them immediately.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with online transactions, particularly in the rental market. Law enforcement officials advise residents to take precautions to avoid falling victim to similar scams. Recommendations include verifying property ownership through public records, meeting landlords or property managers in person, and being wary of requests for payment before viewing the property.
The Sheriff’s Office continues to work diligently to address online fraud and is urging the community to report suspicious activities. Residents who encounter any dubious rental advertisements or believe they may have been targeted by scammers are encouraged to reach out to local authorities promptly.
This incident highlights the importance of vigilance and due diligence when engaging in online transactions to protect oneself from financial loss and potential fraud.
