ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- Several more potential victims of David Linton, who police said scammed several people out of money in phony rental deals, have come forward, including one who helped police catch him.
Chloe Goodrum said she had to move out of her previous home when things became too violent. She moved in with relatives while looking for a new place. In May, after responding to an ad on Craigslist, she thought she had finally found an apartment on Winterroth Street.
"This is something I never thought I'd get caught up in," she said.
Goodrum got caught up in what police said was a scam. Police allege Linton would post ads on Craigslist advertising rental properties. He'd then break into the home and show it to potential renters like Goodrum. Linton would give them fake keys, and take off with their money.
"I think it's cruel and I think it's very mean," said Goodrum, who said she lost $900.
According to police reports, Goodrum arranged a meeting with Linton and he was arrested a short time later.
Linton is charged with burglary and petit larceny. Police believe Linton will face more charges, and said there are likely more victims out there.
"They'd pack up their kids into U-Hauls and move out of their other apartments only to find out they'd been scammed," said Sgt. Charles Zlotkus, Rochester Police Department.
Goodrum said she's going to start looking all over again - this time with more caution.
"It's really sad that they could do something like that, and I can give a bit of advice, and if you do go look for an apartment, not only check the address but do some background checking."