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Police: Man Wanted In Apartment Rental Scam In Washington Heights

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Police were searching Wednesday for a man who allegedly took money from apartment seekers on Craigslist as they paid him fees and rent for units he did not own in Washington Heights.

Between July and August of last year, the suspect solicited apartment seekers while working for a property management company, police said. He showed them apartments the company managed, and claimed to be their agent, police said.

Four victims agreed to rent units at 529 W. 179th St., and a fifth rented one at 1795 Riverside Dr., police said.

The victims all handed the suspect deposit money, and paid him regular monthly rent that he took for himself, police said.

The suspect was identified as Thomas Ome, also known as Thomas Prince, 45. Police have released a photo.

Anyone with information was asked to call the NYPD Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS, log onto the Crime Stoppers website, or text tips to 274637 (CRIMES) and enter TIP577.

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