Special to the Caloosa Belle
LABELLE -- A local couple was arrested after being accused of running a puppy scam.
According to Hendry County Sheriff's Office press release, on "Friday, Feb. 18, 2022, Hendry County Major Crimes Unit arrested a couple for defrauding people out of hundreds of dollars for the promise of a puppy."
Paul Douglas Walker, 31, and Jodi Mari Pipkins, 30, were both arrested and charged with multiple felony counts of fraud, grand theft and other charges.
According to HCSO, Walker and Pipkins organized the scheme by advertising a puppy on Facebook, then communicating with interested parties via the Textnow App. They then persuaded the victim to provide a “down payment” and arranged for payment of the dog. When communicating with the buyer, Walker reportedly identified himself as “Jason Herring." Pipkins reportedly identified herself as “Ashley Talbit."
According to HCSO, Walker would arrange to meet the potential buyer at a designated location and collect a “down payment” with the promise to deliver the puppy. There never was a puppy.
There have been several victims that have been identified to include victims in neighboring counties.
HCSO asks the public to please call Major Crimes Detectives at 863-674-5600 if you have any information on scam.
