As I said, they trusted the ad had been vetted by the operators of Craig's list. (Not sure why you are asking what I already answered.)
My issue is with those who think the individuals who fell for the scam should be prosecuted. I believe the operators of Craig's list are more responsible for any criminal activity associated with what is posted on THEIR SITE than those who read the site and respond to what is there.
Fine, go after the guy who posted the ad. He is definitely a criminal. But if you want to go after the individuals who responded to the ad, get the Craig's list owners first.
All I can say is, thank God you are not in any position of power. Out here in reality land, the Sheriff's office has already said that they will be going after the looters, 12 people will look at the facts in this case, and convict after spending approx. 1 minute deliberating. Your defense of the looters based upon an internet ad is preposterous. They knew what they were doing was wrong, and they did it anyways out of greed.
>.As I said, they trusted the ad had been vetted by the operators of Craig’s list.<<
What statement by CL are they “trusting”? CL is plasered with warnings that the ads are NOT vetted by CL. That is why it is free. I like it that way.
It is vetted by the reader of the ad contacting the creator of the ad. Until then it is not to be respected as anything other than fiction. It is pretty obvious to anyone that actually reads the warnings on the site.
Any reasonable and responsible person, that is.