Many assume that females are more at risk when using internet dating sites, however if you have criminal intent, it doesn’t really matter what your sex is. This is well-illustrated by what occurred in New Port Richey, Florida this weekend when a recent internet site match leaves a man in critical condition.
Bobbi Jo Curtis 40 met the unidentified man on an unnamed internet dating site.
The man, who is from Pasco County, invited Curtis and her 16 year son to move in with him. It is not clear if Curtis and her son actually moved in with him but apparently they knew where he lived.
According to authorities after about a week, the mother and her son tied up the man and beat him. The suspects and a third unidentified woman then stole items, including guns, from the home.
The man was left in critical condition with serious head injuries and remains hospitalized.
The mother and son were arrested Saturday morning. Authorities had received a tip from someone at the motel where they were staying.
New Port Richey police were called to the scene, and the duo turned themselves in.
Bobbie Jo Curtis, 40, and her 16 year old son, who is being charged as an adult, have been charged with attempted homicide and unlawful imprisonment.
They are also charged with aggravated battery and grand theft auto and are being held in the Pasco County jail pending their first appearance Sunday morning.
It was not immediately known if they had an attorney.
More and people are using internet dating sites. It easy, convenient and offers users an initial sense of “safeness” because they can remain relatively anonymous and reveal only as much or as little information about themselves to potential suitors as they choose.
The downfall is that it is easier for people on the internet to mislead others about their true identify.
Sheriff Chris Nicco said it bet with his recent warning. He said,
Be careful with who you are talking to. You don’t know who is on the other end.
Please see our 5 Internet Dating Safety Tips for more way to protect yourself and help avoid becoming a crime victim with someone you have met over the internet.