Last Month's Rent Back

[klingelm]

Massachusetts

Long story, but interesting, so keep reading! About a month ago I found an apartment with a really nice landlady and left last month's rent with her, with the agreement that she would give me keys after I gave her the first month's rent before the move in date of August 1. I've been calling and calling to reach her, and she has not responded.
After getting suspicious, I googled her name and found that she has a serious criminal history, including identity theft and larceny. (I am 98% sure it's her, not just a coincidence)
With two possible scenarios, I need some suggestions!
Scenario 1: She doesn't contact me, and I go to the police because at that point it is basically theft. No problem there.
Scenario 2: She does contact me, and expects me to move in. Yeah right! I have no intention of moving in to a house where somebody has access to my mail and apartment who steals identities. Should I get a lawyer to sort things out? Do I have a right to get my last month's rent back?

 

[BL]

Sounds like a consult with a Lawyer .
98 % sure doesn't cut it .

If you can't contact the LL by the 1st and you're prepared to move in , you should be able to get your money returned .

If you can contact the LL and simply decide you don't want to move in on " Allegations " , then you lose your money .

 

[klingelm]

Yeah, I understand about the 98% thing. In the article which discussed her crimes, it said as part of her sentance she would not be able to take a job where she handles money. Would a lawyer be able to prove it's the same woman, then use that to get my money back?