The Rosetown RCMP have advised the public of an ongoing scam where an individual is posting a hot tub for sale on Facebook and asking for a e-transfer. The individual then gives an address to pick up the said hot tub, and it turns out to be at a vacant lot. Sgt. Jason Waldner of the Rosetown RCMP explains how this scam got started. 

“On October 31st, we were notified that several individuals in the Rosetown area had attended a location in Rosetown to do the final purchase for a hot tub that was on sale through Facebook. The individual had a photo of a hot tub and had been receiving e-transfers from multiple people. And then advised that you can pick up the hot tub on this date and time at this location in Rosetown. That all turned out to be fraudulent, there was no hot tub. The residence was actually vacant and unfortunately some individuals lost their money. Some were able to get back some of their money through the bank.  We've been advised that this individual has again, re posted this ad or is posting on Facebook to say that this hot tub is available. And again, we're hearing that more people are putting deposits down and we're just wanting to notify the public that the hot tub is not for sale, it is fraudulent.” 

When asked about what name is behind the posting, Sgt. Waldner said they were using this Facebook profile, and if it is an alias, to make sure this individual calls the local detachment to get the matter straightened out. 

“The name that's on the Facebook page is Franklin Hudson, but we do not know of that individual. We don't know if it's an alias. So, if there is a Franklin Hudson in the area, we'd love him to contact the RCMP detachment just because someone may be using his name. But if it is an alias, it is good for the public to be aware if they see that post on Facebook to definitely do their due diligence.” 

Sgt. Waldner also had this stern reminder about not putting down payments on purchases online. 

“When purchasing something online, whether it be through Facebook or Kijiji, always be cautious of putting deposits down. Because the fraud scams are unfortunately, not going away. People make a living doing this, and again, we don't want to see people victimized lose their hard-earned money.” 

If anyone has any information on this crime, you are asked to call the Rosetown RCMP at 306-882-5700, or Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).