Suspect arrested in Craiglist, CSU Bakersfield scam

Craigslist roommate scam

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - An arrest was made regarding a Craigslist scam involving California State University Bakersfield.

A month long investigation led to the arrest of 28-year-old Tope Onosohare Jelugbo for forgery, identity theft, using a computer to commit a crime, business burglary, and for forging checks.

On June 7, investigators called for an investigation after ads were posted on Craigslist where the Jelugbo was seeking a room for rent and posing as a student of CSU-Bakersfield.

The Bakersfield Police Department joined with CSU-Bakersfield to investigate.


The following tips were released by officials to help people buying and selling items on Craigslist:

Creating the Ad:

It's important to think about security as you prepare an online advertisement. Don't use your full name and don't list your address or phone number. If you use photos, make sure you only show the item for sale without including family members or any identifiable information. Block out the license plate numbers on a photo of a vehicle for sale. As a seller, it's imperative to control as much of the transaction as possible. The safest way to conduct the transaction is via e-mail. Create a free disposable e-mail account for your online business. Resist requests to give out your phone number. If the buyer needs to talk to you, get his or her number and call them. Use the caller ID block on your phone to keep your number private.

Meeting face-to-face:

With some transactions you may need to meet the potential buyer to let them inspect the item or complete the sale. Arrange to meet in a public place at a time when there are plenty of people around. Also, take someone with you. 

If the transaction involves a significant amount of money, meet at your bank. When you're the seller and receive a check for a payment, take the check into your bank and make sure the check clears before sending the item. Never accept checks for over the amount agreed upon and never agree to send overpaid money back to buyer.

Protect your house:

If you're selling a large item, such as a refrigerator, move it our of the house. Put it in the garage or driveway. When setting up the meeting, tell the buyer others will be there. Don't let them inside your home.

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