A Florida father, 27-year-old Adam Hilarie, was shot in the head during a home invasion. His killers were lead there by his online date, Hailey Rose Bustos, 18.
Hilarie met his date online. They went bowling then back to his place. That’s when Bustos took the opportunity to case his house for valuables. She came back later with three men to rob Hilarie’s TV, Xbox, cash and valuables. At some point during the robbery, Hilarie was shot in the head while begging for his life. He left behind a 5-year-old daughter.
This likely wasn’t her first time robbing someone this way, according to Auburndale Police Deputy Chief, Andy Ray. It’s thought Bustos was paid $50 to find an easy target, and it left a father dead.
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This is an extreme example of what can go wrong when you’re looking for love online, but you can keep yourself safe if you follow a few tips.
Never Bring Them Home
If you’re on a first, second, or even third date with someone you met online – don’t bring them to your home or go to theirs after the date. This puts you at danger of being robbed – or worse. Wait. Get to know each other. Make sure they’re who they say they are. Bustos came back the next day to rob Hilarie – criminals aren’t going to keep the act for long – someone that’s really into you will, so turn time on your side and make them wait.
Check Out Their Criminal Records Online
Officer Ray suggests you should check someone’s records out online before you meet them in person. This is really easy to do, with online people searches and court record finders. A great tool will combine everything into one search. When you’re looking up someone you’ve met online, check their social media accounts and see if the story they’ve give you on the dating site or app matches the rest of their profiles. All you need is a phone number, email address, or even just their name. The more data you have, the better the results.
Don’t Mention Your Work, Money, or Family
When you’re on a first date, you’re with a total stranger. Even if you feel like you’re already close, you aren’t. Don’t mention the details about where you work, how much money you make, how many valuables you have or the details of your family. Of course you want to talk about this later, but on a first date, keep the conversation light and get to the know the other person – not their bank account. Asking these sorts of questions could be a sign of criminal intent.
Take Your Own Transportation
It’s easy to get a ride share, taxi, or use public transit if you’re in a city. Don’t let them pick you up or take you home. Inviting a stranger into your car is the same as inviting them into a part of your home. Save it for a later date.
Don’t Get Intoxicated
Don’t get too drunk. Know your limits and stop before you get there. If you’re intoxicated, you’re not going to make great decisions. If they’re insisting you do, that’s a warning sign or simply just pressure you don’t need.
Don’t be a target. Protect your privacy until you’re sure about the person. Someone with criminal intent won’t stick around for multiple dates, their online profiles won’t match from dating sites to social media. They may have court or criminal records you can find online. Stay alert and stay safe when you’re dating online.