A good friend of mine (and respected member) loaned a significant amount of money to a well known individual in the Stephen King community who seemed to be in financial distress. The loan was contingent upon the individual providing an item as collateral, and after 100% payoff within one year, the item would be returned.
The money was sent in advance trusting the person to fulfill their commitment. To date the individual never paid it back, never sent the collateral, and now won't answer an calls, texts, or emails.
Over 15 months now.
My friend is out $1K