Beware: Couples Getting Scammed in Linden Apt. Rentals Off Craigslist

Linden, NJ - Be warned: Two different couples lost nearly $5,000 in cash Monday morning after falling for an apparent apartment rental scam on Craigslist.

In the first incident, a couple from Elizabeth — a man, 30, and a woman, 27 — told police on Sunday they had just paid $2,650 cash for two months rent to a man named “Marcos” and signed a lease agreement for an apartment on Cedar Avenue. They said they gave him the cash on Sunday. However, when they went to move in Monday with the key they were given, it did not work. When they went to call Marcos, they were unable to reach him. The couple went to the Linden police, who contacted the property owner and said he did not offer any apartment for rent.

Linden police went to the Cedar Avenue property Monday morning, and while they were there, they were approached by a second couple, this time from Linden. Similarly, this man and woman said they too had signed a lease agreement and paid $2,200 in cash as a security deposit for the same apartment they found on Craigslist. They met a woman earlier this month named “Mirna” who took their money and had them sign a lease agreement. She was never heard from again.

Detectives are investigating both incidents. Police warn residents to be cautious of the scam, where cash deposits are requested up front before inspecting the property. If you are thinking about renting a property, ask to see documentation that the landlord is the actual owner of the property (check a tax bill or utility receipt). And do not pay security deposits in cash; use checks.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective David Kother at 908-474-8556.