Theft by Deception under Investigation

The Rabun County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a theft by deception case.  On July 31, 2022, a deputy took a call from someone who stated that he had attempted to purchase a Boston Terrier puppy online from someone supposed to be living in Clayton.  He stated that he contacted the seller through a website on the internet.  He was required to pay $230 through the ZELL website.  After paying the fee, contact with the seller stopped and he has been unable to contact the seller again.  The victim told the deputy that he had contacted ZELL about getting a refund but needed to file a report.