Got ripped off, what recourse do I have?

[byron]

What is the name of your state? Texas (Dallas)

HI, I'm in a pickle, I purchased a camera on a photography forum, and paid through paypal. I never received the camera (it was $600!!) and the guy isn't answering any of my emails Since I didn't buy it on ebay, the paypal site states it's not warrantied. What recourse do I have? Can I do a chargeback and if so how does that work? Can i file some kind of criminal activity? Thanks

 

[RedemptionMan]

File a paypal dispute resolution form...

 

[byron]

Hi guys,

Well guess what. AMAZINGLY, I got my package today - AND ALL IT HAS WAS A ROCK INSIDE THE CAMERA BOX!!! I guess I HAVE been scammed here. Surely I have some type of recourse based on this, please don't tell me I'm SOL of $600... any suggestions? Thanks

 

[dallas702]

Ok.

Immediately file a Paypal dispute form. I hope you did this with a credit card and not the Paypal cash balance.

*chargeback*!

Also, post your situation on the photo forum. You'd be surprised how those forum geeks can help out.

 

[byron]

Ok.

Immediately file a Paypal dispute form. I hope you did this with a credit card and not the Paypal cash balance.

*chargeback*!
.

But isn't it his word against mine??

I paid with a bank transfer.

 

[acmb05]

Take the advice

And file a dispute with paypal. I am sure you are not the first complaint they have against this person.

Now as far as proof. Since you opened the package already was some one there to witness it when you did?

 

[acmb05]

ooops almost forgot

Go to your bank and file a complaint there also. See if you can revers this somehow. I dont think its posssible with a wire transfer but it dont hurt to ask.

 

[byron]

Now as far as proof. Since you opened the package already was some one there to witness it when you did?

Yes actually my friend was with me... but it seems like a court would consider him biased(?)

 

[JETX]

Bottom line...
Forget PayPal.. he can likely show shipment... and it will be your word against his as to what was received.

Forget 'chargeback', as you didn't use a credit card.

Your ONLY options are:
1) To contact the Dallas PD and see if they will take a theft/fraud complaint against the seller. Some departments will take them long-distance (notarized complaint, affidavit, etc.)... some won't.
2) If the US mail was used, file a fraud complaint with the US Postal inspector. Unlikely to help.... but it might... especially if they get mulitple complaints on the same person... OR if you call the assigned inspector EVERY day.
3) You might contact the local (Dallas) media. Most televisions and print have 'consumer reporters' who might be interested in the 'online mail scam' story.
4) And finally, if you have his real name and address, file a small claims suit against the seller.

And of course, the biggest problem you will have is in proving that a brick was inside the box. I suggest you KEEP everything, in as close to received condition. Also, take pictures of EVERYTHING... box, wrap, postmark, labels, 'brick', etc.