I got a report that I consider reliable about a shakedown targeting providers occuring recently in the Alexandra area.
The report comes from a provider who works out of Backpage. She told me several providers, all associated with Backpage, have been shaken down by a guy posing as law enforcement. He takes the women's purses (with IDs and cash), cell phones and laptops. He is described as really scary. The providers, naturally, have opted not to contact law enforcement, but are warning each other. Anybody hear of this or what the guy looks like?
There was a press release in Alexandria about it 2 years ago warning the providers to be careful. They should notify the police immediately so guy can be prosecuted. The police will go after this guy with a vengeance.
They recently released some information about a guy doing it in Anne Arundel county, Maryland area of Laurel and BWI. He was only 19 years old, in addition to taking the money he raped a few of the providers. This is one of the reasons why providers have some many restrictions with NBA policies.
One thing that I have learned is that ANYTHING can happen. Grasping that concept early and preparing accordingly can help. Although you can never be fully prepared. I have been in this situation before and ever since then I leave everything in my car. When I'm out of town, I'll have a rental or rely on my traveling partner. NEVER keep things like in your room. I really hope they catch this guy though. Scary situation that I wouldn't wish on anyone.