Round Lake man charged with fraud, theft in online puppy scam

A Lake County man was charged with multiple felonies related to a puppy-selling Internet scam.

Mondum Hycenth, 41, of Round Lake was charged with one count of theft, one count of wire fraud, seven counts of burglary, and seven counts of forgery.

According to a press release from Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, victims attempted to buy puppies through online ads. However, they did not not receive the puppies and were unable to obtain refunds.

Authorities said Hycenth used false forms of identification and forged signatures to carry out the scam.

Raoul said it is important for families to remain aware of the dangers of the internet.

“People trying to add a pet to their families or find a furry friend for companionship instead fell prey to a scam,” Raoul said in the release. “I encourage consumers to thoroughly research online sellers and be wary of sending payments through nontraditional methods, such as money transfers and peer-to-peer payment services.”

Hycenth has plead not guilty. His next court date is set for March 12, according to the press release.