Should I go to the police and what will they be able to do?

Question

Local online post of young woman in wheelchair looking for a place to live. Where she is, she is basically being held captive for her SS check. I wrote her I would come get her and give her (at least) a temp place so at least she is out of there. She has not replied. I am worried they found out what she is up to and they pulled her internet (as they have allegedly done in the past). I am starting to worry for her safety. Should I go to the police with my concerns about this stranger? If I do, what can the police do? Can they track her down through an anonymous online ad? Will this cause more trouble for her? Will I embarrass her? If this is a hoax or she is exaggerating, can I get into trouble for going to the police? I don't know what to do...this is eating me up....I am going to cross-post this question and see what kind of advice I can get...

Answer 1

I would call the police. Let them handle this. They are prepared to do the right thing and know the right agency to call to get this woman help. If it is a hoax, they will deal with the person that posted it. Also, stay out of this.....it could be some kind of scam or something thought up by some guy that just got out of prison or some kind of predator. Be a good samaritan and call the police to report this situation.

Answer 2

More than likely its a scam and this person is just looking to get money from unsuspecting people.  If you had offered to send this person money and not provide face to face help you would have got a reply.  No the police won't do anything based on an anonymous ad.

Answer 3

Dont worry so much, its probably just another POLICE sting to entrap people of crimes they wouldnt otherwise commit.

Answer 4

if you really feel you need to take action, maybe print out the emails and take them either to the police or maybe call social services and see what can be done

good luck

Answer 5

If you do something like go to the police then you can say you tried.  But if you do nothing it will eat you alive.

Answer 6

Call the police and forward copies of the emails to them and another set to social security.  Both entities are able to trace the root of the complaints and can take appropriate action if necessary.   If this is a scam trying to get money from people they can address this as well.  Forward it and know that you did the right thing.  Showing up to 'rescue' someone only gets you involved in something you only know one side to and could cost you in more ways than one.

Answer 7

By all means call....if you don't you will always wonder.  Besides, you never know if there are already complaints filed, and by calling you may be able to help move a case along.

As for getting in trouble, no, you will not, as you are not calling in as a prank, but as a concerned citizen....which you have every right to be.  Whether they can track her down or not, becomes their problem.  As for getting her in trouble, if she is scamming the public, then you are doing the public a favor.  As for her embarrassment, that one is tricky...but I say, better safe then sorry.