Same scenario, except that the guy was claiming he lost all his money from prostitution - $20K gambling, and needed to fly back to Italy asap!
Literally the same story as the huntington beach dude.
I fell for this out here in Huntington Beach, Orange County. I feel like such an idiot. Same scenario, except that the guy was claiming he lost his wallet from a prostitute in West VA. So he would give me 3 jackets free if i would help him out with a plane transfer change to today with british airways that cost $225. The guy seemed so genuine and he even pleaded how he really needed the money and how bad he felt asking me and he would repay me by Western Union the next day. Well I must admit he is really good cause he totally made a connection with me and played on my emotions. He used my first name and showed me his passport, gave me a biz card, showed me his rental agreement and flight itinerary (but i did not ask to see the plane ticket). Being young and kind at heart just churned me really to a cold mother *.
Looking back I feel like such an idiot. Made my sunny day into a waste. We talked, he gave me a hug and I cut it down and asked for all 3 jackets intead of one only cuz i felt I can always ebay the jackets and make my money back and if he paid me back, then it was only a bonus. I admit I gave him $225. I walked together with him to the ATM. He even said he was going emotionally bad.
But I have learned for this. I don't want to go to the other extreme and vow never to help someone in need again, but this is so sad how people like him can play on the kindness of others just for some money.
To warn others, this guy is about 5'10' around 25 yrs, average-medium build. He goes by the name Alfonso and he shows you his Italian passport. He drives around in a supposed rental silver Chrysler PT Cruiser. He also tells you he can't speak English very well, he is an export fashion designer out here on business, he will give you Italian made jackets free (which give off a very strong odor), and get this he also told me he is a Christian and shows me his cross necklace. Sadly never again will I do this.
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