In a shocking twist of events, a 26-year-old man from Queensland has been arrested and charged with multiple counts of fraud after allegedly running an online livestock scam. The scheme, which police say operated between August and October 2023, involved the suspect advertising various animals and livestock feed for sale on social media platforms.
According to authorities, the man is accused of falsely advertising a wide array of animals, including cattle, donkeys, and even a kitten. Unsuspecting buyers were allegedly duped into depositing money to secure their purchases, only to discover that the animals and feed never materialized.
The Scope of the Alleged Scam
Investigators have identified at least 12 victims who collectively lost over $7,500 to the alleged fraudster. The scam’s reach extended across various breeds of livestock, as well as poultry and companion animals:
- Cattle
- Donkeys
- Horses
- Chickens
- A kitten
Police Takedown and Charges
The Queensland Police Service’s dedicated Rural and Stock Crime Squad spearheaded the investigation, ultimately leading to the suspect’s arrest on Tuesday following a search of a property in Kallangur, north of Brisbane. The man now faces a litany of charges:
- 14 counts of fraud
- Several drug offenses
He is set to appear before the Pine Rivers Magistrates Court on November 14.
Protecting Yourself from Online Livestock Scams
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of exercising caution when purchasing animals or goods online. The Queensland Police Service has urged buyers to conduct thorough background checks on sellers and livestock before transferring any funds.
“These checks could include arranging to inspect the livestock, requesting the property identification code, Australian business number, and having a voice phone conversation with the seller.”
Queensland Police Service spokesperson
Authorities have also encouraged victims of online scams to report their experiences to the Australian Cyber Security Centre for further investigation and support.
A Growing Concern
The Queensland man’s arrest comes on the heels of a community warning issued by police in July 2023 regarding a surge in online livestock scams. The alert followed numerous reports of fraudulent schemes in which sellers allegedly failed to deliver advertised animals after receiving deposits or lured buyers to fake addresses.
As our lives become increasingly intertwined with the digital world, it is crucial that we remain vigilant against those who seek to exploit the anonymity and reach of the internet for personal gain. By staying informed, conducting due diligence, and reporting suspicious activity, we can work together to create a safer online environment for all.
