Family conned in dog scam drove 200 miles to West Sussex
Police are urging people to do their research before buying pets online
A family have been left broken-hearted and empty-handed after driving 200 miles to West Sussex to pick up a puppy that never actually existed.
Sussex Police are urging people to be aware of puppy scammers after the group from Shropshire were targeted, losing ÂŁ500 in the process.
They made the journey to East Grinstead earlier this month to pick up the pet after arranging to buy it with a seller online.
When they turned up at the address they had been given, though, the homeowner was completely oblivious to why they were there and did not have the pet with them.
Mid Sussex Neighbourhood Police Inspector Darren Taylor said it wasn't the first time the force has seen a scam like this during lockdown:
"Unfortunately, with all the different scams going on during lockdown, the puppy ones have been coming to the forefront.
"The scammers say they are selling puppies and set up a false address, and the homeowner has no idea their address has been plucked out of thin air.
"They build up a rapport with people and advertise the puppies."
Those who buy pets online are being urged to see the dog and to check what condition it is in before handing over any money.
Inspector Darren Taylor added:
"Not only did this family lose a lot of money but the children are devastated, and the scammer walks away ÂŁ500 better off. It is very sad."