Craigslist scam in Covina unravels

Reporter Amanda Baumfeld will report tomorrow on a Craigslist scam in Covina that has some potential renters hopping mad.

Here's the top of her story as it stands:

COVINA - Stevan Ortiz and his girlfriend planned to move into a three-bedroom home on Calera Avenue Thursday.

The couple - expecting their second child in June - gave notice at their apartment in Baldwin Park, bought a washer and dryer and even made plans to pick up a dog.

But Tuesday afternoon, Ortiz, 22, discovered he was among a group of people who have been victims of a real estate fraud.

"We made so many plans," said Ortiz, who tried contacting the owner all weekend. "I had this in the back of my mind when I couldn't get a hold of him."

At least 12 families have filed complaints connected to the property located at 5441 N. Calera Avenue, said Detective Ted Williams, of the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department. Each family gave first and last month rent, totaling $2,400, officials said.