In a distressing incident, a Decatur resident fell victim to a heartless scammer who claimed to have found their missing cat and then demanded a ransom for its return.
Approximately one week ago, Luna Bond’s beloved feline companion, Riley, mysteriously disappeared from their Decatur residence. In their desperate quest to locate their cherished pet, Bond was contacted by an individual who purported to have information about Riley’s whereabouts but had ulterior motives.
Riley, described as an affectionate American short-hair cat, had been Bond’s constant source of comfort, particularly during nighttime cuddles. The sudden absence of Riley left Bond deeply concerned.
“I was shocked when he didn’t come for breakfast. Like, ‘Where are you?'” Bond recounted.
To amplify the search for Riley, Bond turned to social media, where they shared their pet’s photographs and their distress over the disappearance. In a surprising turn of events, Bond received a text message from an unknown number, accompanied by photographs that appeared to depict Riley.
“They asked me, ‘Are you missing a cat?'” Bond recalled.
Initially filled with excitement at the prospect of reuniting with their beloved pet, Bond arranged to meet the individual at a nearby store. However, the situation took a distressing turn when the person who claimed to have found Riley demanded a sum of $100 for the cat’s return.
“He demanded $100 from me,” Bond explained, noting their fixed income and the financial challenges posed by their disability.
Upon closer inspection of the photographs, Bond came to the heart-wrenching realization that the cat in the images was not Riley, leaving them feeling deceived and vulnerable.
“I was being very much duped,” Bond admitted.
When asked if the scammer ever appeared or if Riley was returned, Bond responded in the negative.
“I genuinely don’t think that guy was going to show up if I did give him $100,” Bond stated, highlighting the potential loss of both their pet and their money.
Bond promptly reported the incident to the police and wisely refrained from providing the extortionist with the money they demanded.
In light of their experience, Bond is determined to raise awareness about such heartless scams, urging fellow pet lovers to exercise caution and skepticism when confronted with similar situations. Despite the ordeal, Bond remains hopeful that Riley will eventually be reunited with them.
