Victims Unite in WhatsApp Group to Catch South Florida Apartment Scammer

Arrest of Alleged Apartment Scammer

• 🎯 Two individuals have been arrested on real estate fraud charges, with victims banding together to seek justice.
• 💡 The investigation centers on a man known as "Scammer Josh Herrera", who allegedly defrauded numerous people through rental schemes.

The "We Found Josh" WhatsApp Group

• 💬 A WhatsApp group chat named "We Found Josh" became instrumental, with 19 members sharing clues and collaborating on the investigation.
• 🤝 Victims used the group to share their experiences, pool information, and conduct their own research into the scammer's activities.

Modus Operandi and Impact on Victims

• 🎭 The accused allegedly posed as a real estate agent, often on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, to collect deposits and money.
• ⚠️ He is accused of switching up his story and making it seem like he owned the properties, leading to red flags for some.
• 💔 Victims reported significant emotional and financial distress, including depression, hair loss, and near homelessness.

Geographic Scope and Ongoing Investigation

• 🗺️ Research by the group indicated the scammer may have operated in Los Angeles, Georgia, Tampa, Orlando, and Miami.
• ⚖️ The investigation is ongoing, with the primary accused, Josh Harrison, jailed on a $400,000 bond.
• 🚫 If released on bond, the judge mandated house arrest and a ban on internet use, as this was his alleged method for finding victims.