Devon Baker
A Mary Esther man faces numerous charges after posting a Craig’s List ad to sell a metal storage building on Lakeview Drive that he didn’t own.
33-year old Devon Robert Baker of 415 West Pine Avenue is charged with dealing in stolen property, attempted grand theft, theft, false verification of ownership for regulated metals, and unlawful use of a two-way communications device.
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation after finding out that a citizen interested in purchasing the metal building had made arrangements to exchange cashier’s checks for a bill of sale; however upon researching the property, the prospective buyer discovered the real property owner/ victim’s identity. When contacted, the property owner told deputies no one had permission to enter on, let alone sell his property from the vacant lot.
Baker admitted taking cell phone photos of the metal building to advertise for sale and to communicate with potential buyers. He also admitted to taking a riding lawn mower from the property and selling it.
Here’s a link to some tips on how to avoid Craig’s List Scams:
https://www.craigslist.org/about/scams
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