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() As an attorney who has assisted people who have been defrauded, I have experience in these matters. Throwing the usual "the cops won't do anything, so I won't bother" silliness only allows these conditions to fester and more innocent victims to be cheated. Why would anyone actively discourage a crime victim from reporting it? Trust me, cops want to know when a thief lives in their borders. Police in smaller communities are even more interested.
At a minimum, I would write to the police chief in the buyer's city or town (this info is usually available on-line or with a short phone call to that police department) with a letter stating "I know your resources may be limited, and the amount of my loss is relatively small. I am aware that fraud often goes unreported because dozens or even hundreds of victims may consider their losses to be minimal. On the other hand, I think you would want to be aware of what is happening in your community. [describe situation in a paragraph or two] I am prepared to file a formal complaint if you request, and you may always reach me at [phone number] if you have any questions." Considering the amount of debate fraud generates, I would think that 41 cents and 5 minutes to draft a letter would not be too much to ask of someone.
Yes, sometimes the police do nothing because big-city forces don't have enough time to handle all the misdemeanors that come their way. Yes, sometimes the police try hard but never get enough evidence to charge someone with a crime. But the blanket admonition that the police never do anything is an insult to many fine men and women, and helps perpetuate a distrust of law enforcement that fraudsters continue to use to their advantage.
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