Norfolk, VA – Jaden Hickman and her friends fell victim to a rental scam after finding what they thought was their dream home on Facebook Marketplace. The WTKR News 3 Investigative Team delves into the rising incidents of rental scams plaguing Hampton Roads.

Jaden Hickman, a 19-year-old resident of Norfolk, began her search for a rental home on Facebook Marketplace in late April. She discovered a listing for a spacious four-bedroom house priced at $650 per month, a seemingly incredible deal for the area. Excited about the prospect of moving in with her childhood friends, Hickman engaged with the purported owner, who claimed to be a truck driver and showed eagerness to rent out the property quickly.

Falling Victim to Deception

Hickman recounted her initial interactions with the scammer, who provided access to the home via a lockbox code and even furnished her with a lease agreement and receipts for payments totaling around $700. Despite some odd requests and red flags—such as asking her to record a video promising to keep the house clean—Hickman proceeded with the move-in plans.

Discovery and Devastation

Just two days after moving in, Hickman and her friends were shocked when a contractor and a police officer arrived at the property, revealing the harsh reality—they had been scammed. Norfolk police confirmed the fraudulent nature of the lease, leaving Hickman and her friends homeless and devastated.

Community Impact and Response

Reflecting on the ordeal, Hickman expressed deep disappointment, stating, I feel like I let them down… It’s embarrassing. The incident shattered their childhood dream of living together and has left them uncertain about their housing future.

Authorities and experts have warned about the increasing prevalence of online rental scams. Scott Zmudzinski, Assistant Special Agent in Charge at Norfolk, highlighted the exponential rise in such scams, fueled by the anonymity and convenience of online platforms.

Investigative Efforts and Advice

The WTKR Investigative Team has been actively tracking rental scam issues since a similar incident involving reporter Margaret Kavanagh’s home last summer. Experts advise potential renters to verify property ownership, conduct thorough research, and refrain from sending money until legitimacy is assured.

Conclusion

The rental scam that befell Jaden Hickman and her friends underscores the critical need for vigilance when searching for rental properties online. As they seek to rebuild their housing plans, the community remains vigilant against such fraudulent activities.

For more information on protecting yourself from rental scams, visit The Local News App for updates and alerts.

Download The Local News App to stay informed on local news and alerts directly to your phone.

Source