[Mauser720]

Clark -

I have had mixed results involving the U.S. Postal Service. Sometimes they will get involved and help, and sometimes they will say it is not their problem, even if you used a USPS money order to pay for the item.

Another effective alternative you can use is to check out the web site for the attorney general in the state where this fellow lives. A part of the site will explain his state's procedures for dealing with complaints of consumer fraud. There will usually be a form which you can download and print off, and you may also assemble and provide them with a complete case file which documents how you were ripped off.

Your case file will have to "stand on its own" which means that anyone picking up your complaint will be able to read it and clearly understand exactly what happened and when it happened. For example, when you called him on the telephone and he hung up on you, you can attach a copy of your phone bill that shows you did call his phone number on a particular date and at a particular time, etc. Plus you will have to tell them exactly what relief you are seeking; i.e., you want the amount of the fraudulently cashed check refunded to you.

The relief you are seeking has to be "personal to you" which means you can not ask that any legal action be taken against him or that he be punished or anything like that. In this case, the only appropriate relief you can ask for is that you get a refund on your fraudulently cashed check.

Since a handgun is involved, I can assure you they will take your complaint very seriously.

This approach has some advantages in my opinion. (1) It is free; (2) It will be handled by professional law enforcement personnel in the state where he lives; and, (3) There will then be a permanent record in the area where he lives regarding his activities. This may help someone else in the future.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me via private Email. I wish you the best.