In November and December 2013, I was the intended victim of an internet dating scam. Thankfully, I did not send this person money. I wanted to post all of the information I had on him online so that I might help some unsuspecting victim from getting hurt in the future. I HAD Googled his name and contact information with no luck. Hopefully, you have reached this website because you have done the same and now there is information online. I have reported him to the Christian Mingle website and he has been removed from there. I reported him to the FBI but they will probably not do anything because I did not sent him money. My local police will not take a report because I didn't send him any money, either.
As hard as it is to accept, please note that if you have been the victim of a scammer, YOU are not at fault in any way! Do not feel guilty! Do not feel ashamed! They are evil people, preying on our emotions. You are not stupid! I have quite a bit of education and have been a teacher for most of my life! These scammers must be stopped! I am hoping, by posting my story on this website, I will be able to help prevent someone else from getting hurt.
A couple of things you can do for yourself is upload any pictures your scammer has sent you to this website:
http://www.google.com.au/insidesearch/features/images/searchbyimage.html
I was able to find one of the pictures he sent me this way.
And, if he has sent you any emails, open the email, right click on it to "properties," scroll through and find the IP address and enter it on this website:
http://www.iplocation.net/
This will tell you where the computer he is on is located. I have included "Ronald's" IP address at the end of this narrative.
A great website about the "oil rig scams" is:
http://www.theoilrigscams.com/index.html
Below is the narrative I sent to the FBI two days ago:
Subject’s name: Ronald Peter Raphael aka Ronald “the rock” Raphael
DOB: 24 April 1958, Koeckelberg, Brussels, Belgium
Religion: Pentecostal, attends church every week
Phone number: 602-492-2065
Email: [email protected]
Christian Mingle ID: caughten
Narrative for Ronald Peter Raphael aka Ronald “the rock” Raphael (“Peter” is known as “the rock” in the Bible) per correspondence with victim:
Ronald Peter Raphael (hereafter “Ronald”) was born 24 April 1958 in Koeckelberg, Brussels, Belgium. His mother’s name is Mary and his aunt’s name is Gloria. At the age of 12, he spent time with his uncle in Manchester, England, where he learned the English language. His first language is Flemish, second language is French, and third language is English. He has a very strong French accent. He has a sister and brother-in-law who live, with their three children, in Scotland.
Ronald describes, in great detail, growing up in Belgium. He is very close to his mother and not so close with his father, who believed in the Biblical “spare the rod and spoil the child.”
He attended Kent University in Brussels.
Ronald helps to support his mother (age 77) and father (age 82), who live in Koekelberg, as well as his twin nine year old daughters, Gloria and Mary. Gloria’s favorite colors are pink and black. Mary’s are pink and blue. His family speaks English. His ex-wife is a drug addict and is in and out of rehab and has no contact with his daughters. “Family” is very important to Ronald. He constantly asks about your relationship with your family.
Ronald came to the US four years ago and lives in Chino Valley, near his school friend, his sponsor, who has lived here for 15 years. Ronald plans to get his US Citizenship next year.
When questioned, Ronald can tell you, in detail, about every sermon he hears on Sunday at church.
On or about November 3, 2013, Ronald contacted me on the Christian Mingle website. We corresponded for several days back and forth. On November 8, 2013, we took our correspondence off of the site and on to personal emails because “he didn’t get access to the site at work.” He is an industrial electrician who works on contract jobs around the world. Presently, he’s on the West Phoenix Oil Rig.
On Saturday, November 30th, 2013, there was an explosion on the rig which caused two of his freelancers to be flown to a hospital. He felt responsible for the accident. Early Monday morning, the 2nd, Ronald informed me that he is required to pay for some of the equipment damaged in the explosion or the general contractor was going to file charges against him. When asked how much he needed to pay, he replied, “$90,000.” He said that he would appreciate me helping him with this amount. I explained that, as I had mentioned throughout our “relationship,” that I was broke, had no job, and had no money.
At this point, I knew it was all a lie. I decided to “play” the game a little and see if I could find out more. I went so far as to say that I “might” be able to get some money for him but, then, said that I couldn’t get the money. Texts and emails and phone calls continued back and forth, mostly about how upset he was that he couldn’t raise the money needed. He said he needed to send the money to Cambodia (where his next job begins in January 2014) to purchase the equipment because it is cheaper in Asia than in the US. He said he was selling his jewelry, borrowing money from people, etc.
I started doing some research on the internet about “oil rig dating scams.” One site was very informative:
http://www.theoilrigscams.com/index.html
I went so far as to send HIM the website which I said was sent to me by a friend. He got very upset and denied that he was in the UK, asking if that is what I thought of him? I said it was sent by a friend who wanted me to be careful.
Our contact seemed to drop off a bit. I thought it was over and then, on December 14th, 2013, after 1 ½ days of not hearing from him, he texted me that he had met with the general contractor and had paid most of the debt and only needed about $7,000 to send to Cambodia. I kept telling him that I would pray that God would find a way to get him the money. At one point, he even asked if I could borrow the money from someone. I told him that if I could borrow that much money, I would keep it myself to pay my own bills.
When I did a search on Google Images, of the pictures he had sent me, on match came back to this Facebook account belonging to a "Benjamin Bradley:"
https://www.facebook.com/eugene.pollet
When I wrote to this person and asked about the picture, he replied, on December 21, 2013: “don't mind those people there are using my picture for something that i don't even know about..”
When I Decided to "google" a Christmas "story" Ronald sent to me, I found out it was plagiarized from a website:
Here’s “his” memory:
December 17, 2010
ESSAY WINNER: My Favorite Christmas Memory Anonymous The Moultrie Observer The Moultrie Observer Fri Dec 24, 2010, 03:16 PM EST
MOULTRIE — I've been truly blessed with several Christmas memories throughout the years. There have been many Christmases and many memories. However, my favorite Christmas memory occurred when I was seven years old. Although today's typical seven years old child do not believe in Santa , during my childhood, my community of seven year old friends did. Not only did we believe in him, we could not waiting until Christmas morning to get the one toy, fruit, nuts and candy that he always brought us.
Each Christmas morning, my parents would enthusiastically get my brothers, sisters and me out of bed (we were already awake with anxiety and anticipation), take us to the living room and point out who gets what. …..
(You can cut and paste emails in Google and search to see if they have been taken from somewhere else.)
All Emails "Ronald" sent to me:
---
caughten wrote on the Christian Mingle site @ November 2, 2013:
I am new
at this, but I couldn't help saying "Hi, what's your
name?"
---
xxxxwrote:
xxxx,
what's yours?
---
caughten wrote:
I am Ronald, Thanks for the smile.. You have got a great
profile, to the point and honest i love it. I invite you to read my profile, i
hope there is an interest. I would like to learn more about you, lets find out
what the future have in store for us. Have a great
day..
---
caughten wrote:
Good to read from you again.. I have actually been here
for 4 years now since i came to the US.. I am originally from Belgium but i find
my self here and i am loving it.. I work as an independent contractor on
Industrial Electricals and have been opportune to travel around for my work
purposes. My daughters are 9 years now and they are living hapiily with my mom
in Belgium. Yes i also speak French. Do you have your family's and relatives in
xxxx? Are you living alone in xxxx? I guess you must be a source of inspiration
and encouragement as a tacher who teaches people everyday. Can i become a good
student lol.. I don't own any animal but i love them.. Your student must be very
funny to compare them selves with your dog.. Yes that could be true, you take
care of your dogs better. and i am sure if you were in the position you would
take care of them as well.. I would look forward to readind from you. I have to
go take my shower and prepare for bed. Have a good night
sleep..
--- caughten wrote:
Hello xxxx, I came to xxxx through a friend who
harbored me when i came in 4 years ago. My daughters have never been here
but i would think of bringing them over once i get settle and my partner is okay
with it. I have been speaking english for long now.. I use to spend time in
Manchester with my uncle who lives there, so i learnt most of my english there.
Your smiles tells how cool you are, i think i like it. I am the first child of two.
I was blessed with my girls, although I left their mom because of a concrete
reason that took me several years to overcome. why? I found out she was
addicted to drugs and even selling some of my valuables in order to raise money.
You see, it's something i never wanted to happen around me neither in my family.
Thank God today i am now a free man living happily and hoping for a better tomorrow.
****
Good day xxxx, Thank you once again for you informative email. Yes its a little
difficult not being able to live with my kids, most because of my job
schedules.. I will make sure of that once i get my self established with my
partner. My first language is Flemish followed by French. I would differentiate
the two electrical jobs as menial domestic and industrial works. The normal
electrician would handle menial jobs at home and streets while the industrial
would installs and wires shopping malls, ships, offshore oil rigs and
companies and factories. They handles heavy duty machines which are very
delicate..I actually live in Chino Valley and i am working in West Phoenix
North Atlantic Rig for wiring and containment installation in the platform. And
i am fine with my environment and the people around me. I often work as
companies sub contractors base on projects and offshore allocations. I like my
career and I am committed to it. I am taking care of my aged mother and my
daughters. I love them so much. I have had some dates which did not work out as
expected. I guess this is the right time to give myself the chance to find that
special woman with whom i can share the rest of my life with. Late last year I
made up my mind, knowing the importance of having a partner, someone i can
share things with and confide in each other. In human I value honesty,
faithfulness, caring, understanding, loyalty and I am not just looking for a
woman for a night stand but someone with good internal qualities and has lots
of love to give in return, I know if I get deceived by the physical beauty
therefore it can fade away in a short time so I do focus my attention mostly on
the internal beauty of a woman that can last forever as we grow old together. I
like the fact that you are a hard working woman and can take care of your self
and your friends mom. You seem to be a very caring and family oriented
woman.. Do you have a good relationship with your family's? I have a good
feelings about you and i have prayed to God for more guidance and direction.
How long have you been on this site? Did you meet anyone? Here is my personal
email ID, we can use it as an alternative way of communicating cos i don't
access the site from work. ([email protected])..
Have a great day..
*****
November
9, 2013:
Good
Morning xxxx,
How was your night? hope you woke up sound and great.
Thanks for your informative email and the way you put your words for my easier
understanding. Its true i misunderstood on that part where i made mention of you
taking care of your friends mom. Thanks for the correction, some people could
take it as an offense. It's good to have a good relationship with your family
and relatives, it can pretty much tell how you would handle your new family and
friends. There is a saying that says" Charity begins at home.. I think
it's very important because they are your priority. It's getting to a week now
that i got into the Christianmingle site.. Can you tell me what happened? I like
to learn from others.. please do share with me..What do you have to do today
being Saturday? I am going to do some chores today and later go out to check
with the freelancers what they are doing at the working site. I might also be
going out for a long walk and other exercises depending on the time i will be
back from the inspection at the working site. I had some prayers before i got
into the christianmingle site and i am hoping on God for an answer, which i
think is around the corner. If there is something you don't understand about me,
kindly let me know, ask me any question. Can you please send me some pictures of
you. May you have a good day..
Heart That Cares,
Ronald.
****
November 10, 2013:
Good evening xxxx,
I am very grateful for the email and the beautiful
pictures of your and your family.. You're gorgeous xxxx and you have got a nice
people. Without being told i can tell that you are a
very nice person who doesn't want any problem. I have not had any experience on
the ChristiaNmingle site, maybe i should say it's good for me so far because i
found you there. You see, I have a policy of maintaining a monogamous
friendship.. I won't communicate with anyone else until i have a reason to do
so.. I am with you now and i like the way we are growing fond of each other. I
am cool with us writing emails and all that until you feels comfortable to
communicate on the phone, though telephone has a way of making it look real and
direct when talking on the phone and knowing each others voice.
What
did yiu do today being Sunday? I went to church and also went out to visit a
colleague who has been sick.. It has been a good dau so far, thank God for
everything. I am going to have my dinner soon..I have attached a picture of me
and my daughters and a friend. Have a great Sunday evening with a warm
hug..
****
November 13, 2013:
Good Evening xxxx, How was your day? Mine was a bit busy, i am just walking in from
work now. My daughters are twin and they are namely, Mary and Gloria..What a
lovely pics, thanks for sharing with me.. What a blessing the man of God impacted in you last Sunday.. I felt the same here, the pastor was very comprehensive in his preaching and
everything was well understood. It's always good to be in the house of God
xxxx Wow i understand your believe honey, I think it's a great thing to also implement
the laws of our ancestors provided they are not detrimental to us. You don't
have to bother your self about what the present government are doing i think
they we realize one day and go back to the old system.. What did you do today? I
am done at work and just had my dinner not long ago. You are a perfect picture
of what i am looking for sweetie.. I can see all the qualities in what you are
saying.. I hope my prayers at the church on Sunday will workout soon. I told
God to continually showing and revealing more about our selves to each one of
us. I wish i could have a warm hug and a kiss, anyway let me just get it from
your picture lol.. and maybe you can feel it right now.. Have a good
evening..
Yours Always,
Ronald.
****
November 16, 2013:
Good Morning xxxx, I just woke up with thoughts of you. How are you doing today? I
can see that you are almost a workaholic.. Please always make sure you don't do
overtime.Your job is something that has to do with your
brain and you need to always give it a good rest. I am not really sure on how to
answer this question.. I know there are parts in Northern Belgium that speaks
Dutch and they are called the Flemish tribe. Don't worry i will make inquiry
and get you the right answer.. My mom is 77years old now and she is still
healthy and fine..My dad 82 and he is still much ok.. I came from a family that
has an history of longevity.. Darling xxxx, i think i need to hear your voice
soon. I want to hear the voice that is behind all these beautiful letters.. I
will look forward to that soon. My regards to your family. Have a great
day..
****
November 18, 2013:
Good Morning xxxx, It's a blessed new week beginning and our God has promised
to grant us all our heart desires.. I am glad you went to church, i did went to
church as well and i enjoyed the sermon which says" Redeem Your Relationship
with God..The man of God made some point on how we can redeem our relationship
with God so that he can be closer to us in all our difficulties. It's an
inspiring topic and i grabbed a lot on it. My both grand and immediate parents
are from Koekelberg, a municipal in Brussels State...They were all catholic, i
was also born in Catholic. I just read your second email and found that you left
me your number there.. Thanks for sharing i will text you before leaving fro
work now.. May you have a great day..
****
November 19, 2013: (the plagiarized Christmas
“memory”)
Good Morning xxxx,
How are you this morning? I woke up sound and strong and will be going o work
soon. It's a good thing to be in the house of God often. You must have benefited
a lot on that topic“Be true, kind, and grateful. I have not started any
Christmas decoration yet,, maybe first week of December i would start setting up
some stuffs. I
have been truly blessed with several Christmas memories throughout the years.
There have been many Christmases and many memories. However, my favorite
Christmas memory occurred when I was seven years old. Although today's typical
seven years old child do not believe in Santa , during my childhood, my
community of seven year old friends did. Not only did we believe in him, we
could not waiting until Christmas morning to get the one toy, fruit, nuts and
candy that he always brought us. Each Christmas morning, my parents would
enthusiastically get me and my sisters out of bed (we were already awake with
anxiety and anticipation), take us to the living room and point out who gets
what. We dared not open our eyes or got up on our own for fear that if Santa saw
us looking as he distributed the gifts, he would spit in our eyes. They would
marvel at the number of "Oh Golly" they heard as each of us saw our one $1.99
unwrapped gift. They then gave themselves Invisible pats on the back for a job
well done. But my seven years old Christmas was different. It made me realized
that Santa was really real. Anyone could come down the chimney and deposit toys,
nuts and candy under a Christmas tree. But only Santa could be responsible for
what took place..Sweetie,
i have to rush out now.. We can continue from telephone.. Have a great
day..
****
November 23, 2013:
Good Morning Sweetheart, How are was your night? I got me thinking about you all night after
our conversation.. You are a nice person and i have no reason to lose such a
beautiful heart like you. I would call you my Honey Bunny, I think we deserve
each other.. I just looked at the beautiful pictures of you and your family's..
They look great.. I will like to meet them someday and let them know how much i
care about you. It inspires me to read
from you everyday.. I am sorry for my short comings.. I will make it up to you.
I also like the fact that you are curious about what i do. I am into industrial
installation of containment and cable support systems wiring. I also
disintegrate and dismantles heavy power transformers and enables the current
& voltage magnitude to change from primary to secondary (and vice versa).. I
have worked in shopping malls, ships, oil platform, factory and stadiums..We
handles the wiring and electrification works. Although people have always said
to me,, what you are doing is a dangerous job, yes it could be but i am already
used to it and i will have a reason to stop it only when i am settled with my
partner. I don't have much to do today.. I will go out to supervise and inspect
what the freelancers are doing, and maybe will do some chores and keep the
environment tidy. I am also looking at going for some exercise if time permits
me, or maybe i will do that tomorrow.. I will text or call you later on baby..
Thank you for coming into my life. You are most welcome to my world..A warm hug
and a kiss to you.. Have a great day..
****
November 27, 2013
Honey it was a pleasure to hear your voice this morning.. I am now
going through all the emails and the beautiful pictures you sent to me.. You are
a very hardworking and creative woman.. They looked totally beautiful, I like it..
I was totally convinced that this woman
cares so much about us as much as i do even though my work and other errands are
occupying my time temporary. Our God will never
let you down for keeping to his word. I was born into a Christian home and my
parents lived an exemplary life, they did not separate no matter the argument
they will always make up and keep going. I am the first of two. I and my younger
sister who is now living with his husband and 3 kids in Scotland.. We were all
nurtured in the way of God. I am very close to my family and they knows
everything about me. I couldn't help it, but to tell them about us. I
understand how difficult it can be to keep up on emails and telephone.. It is
just for a while. I will be available to be with you and make you the woman of
my dream. I want to let the whole world around me know that i am in love
again.. My work schedules is going to come to an end before 2 weeks.. I will
start wrapping up this next week Monday..I feel like i
need you to make me feel like a man.. I want to be with you, kiss you and
caress you. I want to be able to express my love and feeling in every ways..
I am in love with you xxxx, Pleas don't stop being the way you are.. I'm sorry cos i have to end
my letter here, let me rush back to work.. May you have a great and productive
day..
Yours Always,
Ronald.
****
December 4, 2013:
Good Morning Love, I am sorry for my late response to your emails.
I think you are right about my daughter taking it from
their dad.. They are pretty cool and loving, they both like pink and Mary likes
blue while Gloria likes black. I am close to both parents but i think i am more
closer to mom in some areas.. There are things i don't share with dad, i only
relate them to mom.. Like the first time i took alcohol, mom was the first
person to know until a year and half before dad finds out..My father was a nice
person but he doesn't tolerate any nonsense.. He often scold us and punishes us
when we are wrong.. I could remember the first day i went out with friends to a
night club..It was like the whole heaven fell on me that day. He brought out his
gun and swear that he is going to kill me today and beg God for forgiveness..I
could remember one of the verses he uses to punish us whenever we do something
wrong.. (Proverbs 23:13).. One thing i remember about my grandparent was that
they were hard working and they would like to visit the farm always, to weed and
keep it clean.. they just can't stay without doing something. I figured that it
is good for them cause it's away of keeping the body busy and sorts of exercise
to them at their age. My mom took it up from them and she still have a farm land
now.. I feel so good that i was able to put a smile on your face and that your
friends have noticed it.. This is just the beginning sweetheart. I have a lot to
offer and i want to make you the most happiest woman. Honey, i am a very
romantic person, i like a lot of togetherness. I would like to hold hands and be
all over you. I am proud of you and will let everyone know that i am in love
with you. I don't have any problem with meeting any friend or family members.. I
am confident of who i am. Your family would become my family.. I have to be
reading and responding to your letters gradually.. I just left you this few
lines to let you know that i am very grateful for all your efforts, cares and
love..Let me rush out as time is against me now.. I will write more later. .I
love you always.
****
December 9, 2013:
Good Afternoon Love, I am most happy that the lord chose me to be a part of your life
now. As the day goes bye, i keep seeing so many reason why he brought you to me.
I feel the same way.. I enjoyed all our conversation.I know that is going to be
very great when we will be together soon. I feel like i have known you for
years. Have we met in our previous world lol? I see our parents
as our earthly Gods and therefore we should respect and treat then right no
matter the circumstances, because they are now behaving like a child.. Life its
self goes like a circle of metamorphosis, we grow from being parents to children
again. Honey, let me get meeting now.. I will look
forward to talking with you..I love you
always..
Postscript:
I have copies of the many texts he sent to me as well as the audio of his voicemails.
He continued to text me after I sent him a final email, letting him know I KNEW he was trying to scam me. Like any anti-social/psychopathic personality, he attempted to blame ME for his lies.
This shows he is a dangerous individual. Please be careful if you deal with him!
Christian Mingle profile:
Ronald Rafael ID: CAUGHTEN
My Introduction
I am a family oriented man who is happy, friendly, open minded and and loving. I enjoylaughing, infact love humors in my everyday life activities. I am very secure and myfamily, relatives and friends are very important to me. I like to look good so i dress to my satisfaction and keep cleanliness. I am looking to meet someone with similar interest who is ready to welcome life the way it is and hope for a better days with love, passions, humors and adventures..
Info About Me
· Height:5' 11" (180 cm)
· Build:Average
· Hair:Gray
· Eyes:Brown
· Relationship Status:Divorced
· About Children:I have children and would welcome yours
· Children:2
· Children home:0
· Smoking:Never
· Drinking:On occasion
· Church I was raised in:Pentecostal
· Church I attend now:Pentecostal
· Church Attendance:every week
· Education:Bachelor's degree
· Field of Work:Electrician
· Ethnicity:Caucasian / White
· Languages Spoken:English, French
Fun Facts
· Self-description:Calm and Resilient
· Music:Blues, Gospel, Jazz, Pop/Top 40, Praise & Worship, Reggae, Religious Music
· Movie:Action/Adventure, Comedy, Documentary, Musical, Romance, Science Fiction
· Outdoor activity:Basketball, Sports/Athletics, Swimming, Traveling/Sightseeing
· Indoor activity:Cars, Dancing, Music, Restaurants, Shopping, Sports
· My idea of a great trip:fly to an island
· Food:Chinese, European, French, Italian, Mexican, Seafood
· Favorite restaurants:French Kitchen
· Politics:Moderate
· Schools attended:Kent University, Brussels
· Timeliness:I am usually on time
· As for fashion:I dress to be comfortable
***Update January 3, 2014: "Ronald" was reported to Pigbusters.net on December 20th. I have written to them and will give them all of the info I have on this page, including pictures.
IP information as of 12/20/13 from http://www.iplocation.net/index.php: Top of Form
IP Address:
Bottom of Form
Here are the results from a few Geolocation providers. Accuracy of geolocation data may vary from a provider to provider. Test drive yourself, and decide on the provider that you like.
Geolocation data from IP2Location (Product: DB4)
IP Address
Country
Region
City
ISP
98.138.229.29
United States
Nebraska
Omaha
Yahoo! Inc.
Google Map for OMAHA, NEBRASKA, UNITED STATES (New window)
Geolocation data from IPligence (Product: Max)
IP Address
Country
Region
City
ISP
98.138.229.29
United States
California
Sunnyvale
Yahoo Inc.
Continent
Latitude
Longitude
Time Zone
North America
37.3701
-122.03
PST
Google Map for SUNNYVALE, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES (New window)
Geolocation data from IP Address Labs (Product: Pro)
IP Address
Country
Region
City
ISP
98.138.229.29
United States
California
Sunnyvale
Yahoo!
Continent
Latitude
Longitude
Organization
North America
37.4249
-122.0074
Yahoo
Google Map for SUNNYVALE, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES (New window)
Geolocation data from MaxMind (Product: GeoLiteCity)
IP Address
Country
Region
City
Postal Code
Area Code
98.138.229.29
United States
CA
Sunnyvale
94089
408
Google Map for Sunnyvale, CA, USA (New window)
As hard as it is to accept, please note that if you have been the victim of a scammer, YOU are not at fault in any way! Do not feel guilty! Do not feel ashamed! They are evil people, preying on our emotions. You are not stupid! I have quite a bit of education and have been a teacher for most of my life! These scammers must be stopped! I am hoping, by posting my story on this website, I will be able to help prevent someone else from getting hurt.
A couple of things you can do for yourself is upload any pictures your scammer has sent you to this website:
http://www.google.com.au/insidesearch/features/images/searchbyimage.html
I was able to find one of the pictures he sent me this way.
And, if he has sent you any emails, open the email, right click on it to "properties," scroll through and find the IP address and enter it on this website:
http://www.iplocation.net/
This will tell you where the computer he is on is located. I have included "Ronald's" IP address at the end of this narrative.
A great website about the "oil rig scams" is:
http://www.theoilrigscams.com/index.html
Below is the narrative I sent to the FBI two days ago:
Subject’s name: Ronald Peter Raphael aka Ronald “the rock” Raphael
DOB: 24 April 1958, Koeckelberg, Brussels, Belgium
Religion: Pentecostal, attends church every week
Phone number: 602-492-2065
Email: [email protected]
Christian Mingle ID: caughten
Narrative for Ronald Peter Raphael aka Ronald “the rock” Raphael (“Peter” is known as “the rock” in the Bible) per correspondence with victim:
Ronald Peter Raphael (hereafter “Ronald”) was born 24 April 1958 in Koeckelberg, Brussels, Belgium. His mother’s name is Mary and his aunt’s name is Gloria. At the age of 12, he spent time with his uncle in Manchester, England, where he learned the English language. His first language is Flemish, second language is French, and third language is English. He has a very strong French accent. He has a sister and brother-in-law who live, with their three children, in Scotland.
Ronald describes, in great detail, growing up in Belgium. He is very close to his mother and not so close with his father, who believed in the Biblical “spare the rod and spoil the child.”
He attended Kent University in Brussels.
Ronald helps to support his mother (age 77) and father (age 82), who live in Koekelberg, as well as his twin nine year old daughters, Gloria and Mary. Gloria’s favorite colors are pink and black. Mary’s are pink and blue. His family speaks English. His ex-wife is a drug addict and is in and out of rehab and has no contact with his daughters. “Family” is very important to Ronald. He constantly asks about your relationship with your family.
Ronald came to the US four years ago and lives in Chino Valley, near his school friend, his sponsor, who has lived here for 15 years. Ronald plans to get his US Citizenship next year.
When questioned, Ronald can tell you, in detail, about every sermon he hears on Sunday at church.
On or about November 3, 2013, Ronald contacted me on the Christian Mingle website. We corresponded for several days back and forth. On November 8, 2013, we took our correspondence off of the site and on to personal emails because “he didn’t get access to the site at work.” He is an industrial electrician who works on contract jobs around the world. Presently, he’s on the West Phoenix Oil Rig.
On Saturday, November 30th, 2013, there was an explosion on the rig which caused two of his freelancers to be flown to a hospital. He felt responsible for the accident. Early Monday morning, the 2nd, Ronald informed me that he is required to pay for some of the equipment damaged in the explosion or the general contractor was going to file charges against him. When asked how much he needed to pay, he replied, “$90,000.” He said that he would appreciate me helping him with this amount. I explained that, as I had mentioned throughout our “relationship,” that I was broke, had no job, and had no money.
At this point, I knew it was all a lie. I decided to “play” the game a little and see if I could find out more. I went so far as to say that I “might” be able to get some money for him but, then, said that I couldn’t get the money. Texts and emails and phone calls continued back and forth, mostly about how upset he was that he couldn’t raise the money needed. He said he needed to send the money to Cambodia (where his next job begins in January 2014) to purchase the equipment because it is cheaper in Asia than in the US. He said he was selling his jewelry, borrowing money from people, etc.
I started doing some research on the internet about “oil rig dating scams.” One site was very informative:
http://www.theoilrigscams.com/index.html
I went so far as to send HIM the website which I said was sent to me by a friend. He got very upset and denied that he was in the UK, asking if that is what I thought of him? I said it was sent by a friend who wanted me to be careful.
Our contact seemed to drop off a bit. I thought it was over and then, on December 14th, 2013, after 1 ½ days of not hearing from him, he texted me that he had met with the general contractor and had paid most of the debt and only needed about $7,000 to send to Cambodia. I kept telling him that I would pray that God would find a way to get him the money. At one point, he even asked if I could borrow the money from someone. I told him that if I could borrow that much money, I would keep it myself to pay my own bills.
When I did a search on Google Images, of the pictures he had sent me, on match came back to this Facebook account belonging to a "Benjamin Bradley:"
https://www.facebook.com/eugene.pollet
When I wrote to this person and asked about the picture, he replied, on December 21, 2013: “don't mind those people there are using my picture for something that i don't even know about..”
When I Decided to "google" a Christmas "story" Ronald sent to me, I found out it was plagiarized from a website:
Here’s “his” memory:
- I have been truly blessed with several Christmas memories throughout the years. There have been many Christmases and many memories. However, my favorite Christmas memory occurred when I was seven years old. Although today's typical seven years old child do not believe in Santa , during my childhood, my community of seven year old friends did. Not only did we believe in him, we could not waiting until Christmas morning to get the one toy, fruit, nuts and candy that he always brought us. Each Christmas morning, my parents would enthusiastically get me and my sisters out of bed (we were already awake with anxiety and anticipation), take us to the living room and point out who gets what. We dared not open our eyes or got up on our own for fear that if Santa saw us looking as he distributed the gifts, he would spit in our eyes. They would marvel at the number of "Oh Golly" they heard as each of us saw our one $1.99 unwrapped gift. They then gave themselves Invisible pats on the back for a job well done. But my seven years old Christmas was different. It made me realized that Santa was really real. Anyone could come down the chimney and deposit toys, nuts and candy under a Christmas tree. But only Santa could be responsible for what took place..
December 17, 2010
ESSAY WINNER: My Favorite Christmas Memory Anonymous The Moultrie Observer The Moultrie Observer Fri Dec 24, 2010, 03:16 PM EST
MOULTRIE — I've been truly blessed with several Christmas memories throughout the years. There have been many Christmases and many memories. However, my favorite Christmas memory occurred when I was seven years old. Although today's typical seven years old child do not believe in Santa , during my childhood, my community of seven year old friends did. Not only did we believe in him, we could not waiting until Christmas morning to get the one toy, fruit, nuts and candy that he always brought us.
Each Christmas morning, my parents would enthusiastically get my brothers, sisters and me out of bed (we were already awake with anxiety and anticipation), take us to the living room and point out who gets what. …..
(You can cut and paste emails in Google and search to see if they have been taken from somewhere else.)
All Emails "Ronald" sent to me:
---
caughten wrote on the Christian Mingle site @ November 2, 2013:
I am new
at this, but I couldn't help saying "Hi, what's your
name?"
---
xxxxwrote:
xxxx,
what's yours?
---
caughten wrote:
I am Ronald, Thanks for the smile.. You have got a great
profile, to the point and honest i love it. I invite you to read my profile, i
hope there is an interest. I would like to learn more about you, lets find out
what the future have in store for us. Have a great
day..
---
caughten wrote:
Good to read from you again.. I have actually been here
for 4 years now since i came to the US.. I am originally from Belgium but i find
my self here and i am loving it.. I work as an independent contractor on
Industrial Electricals and have been opportune to travel around for my work
purposes. My daughters are 9 years now and they are living hapiily with my mom
in Belgium. Yes i also speak French. Do you have your family's and relatives in
xxxx? Are you living alone in xxxx? I guess you must be a source of inspiration
and encouragement as a tacher who teaches people everyday. Can i become a good
student lol.. I don't own any animal but i love them.. Your student must be very
funny to compare them selves with your dog.. Yes that could be true, you take
care of your dogs better. and i am sure if you were in the position you would
take care of them as well.. I would look forward to readind from you. I have to
go take my shower and prepare for bed. Have a good night
sleep..
--- caughten wrote:
Hello xxxx, I came to xxxx through a friend who
harbored me when i came in 4 years ago. My daughters have never been here
but i would think of bringing them over once i get settle and my partner is okay
with it. I have been speaking english for long now.. I use to spend time in
Manchester with my uncle who lives there, so i learnt most of my english there.
Your smiles tells how cool you are, i think i like it. I am the first child of two.
I was blessed with my girls, although I left their mom because of a concrete
reason that took me several years to overcome. why? I found out she was
addicted to drugs and even selling some of my valuables in order to raise money.
You see, it's something i never wanted to happen around me neither in my family.
Thank God today i am now a free man living happily and hoping for a better tomorrow.
****
Good day xxxx, Thank you once again for you informative email. Yes its a little
difficult not being able to live with my kids, most because of my job
schedules.. I will make sure of that once i get my self established with my
partner. My first language is Flemish followed by French. I would differentiate
the two electrical jobs as menial domestic and industrial works. The normal
electrician would handle menial jobs at home and streets while the industrial
would installs and wires shopping malls, ships, offshore oil rigs and
companies and factories. They handles heavy duty machines which are very
delicate..I actually live in Chino Valley and i am working in West Phoenix
North Atlantic Rig for wiring and containment installation in the platform. And
i am fine with my environment and the people around me. I often work as
companies sub contractors base on projects and offshore allocations. I like my
career and I am committed to it. I am taking care of my aged mother and my
daughters. I love them so much. I have had some dates which did not work out as
expected. I guess this is the right time to give myself the chance to find that
special woman with whom i can share the rest of my life with. Late last year I
made up my mind, knowing the importance of having a partner, someone i can
share things with and confide in each other. In human I value honesty,
faithfulness, caring, understanding, loyalty and I am not just looking for a
woman for a night stand but someone with good internal qualities and has lots
of love to give in return, I know if I get deceived by the physical beauty
therefore it can fade away in a short time so I do focus my attention mostly on
the internal beauty of a woman that can last forever as we grow old together. I
like the fact that you are a hard working woman and can take care of your self
and your friends mom. You seem to be a very caring and family oriented
woman.. Do you have a good relationship with your family's? I have a good
feelings about you and i have prayed to God for more guidance and direction.
How long have you been on this site? Did you meet anyone? Here is my personal
email ID, we can use it as an alternative way of communicating cos i don't
access the site from work. ([email protected])..
Have a great day..
*****
November
9, 2013:
Good
Morning xxxx,
How was your night? hope you woke up sound and great.
Thanks for your informative email and the way you put your words for my easier
understanding. Its true i misunderstood on that part where i made mention of you
taking care of your friends mom. Thanks for the correction, some people could
take it as an offense. It's good to have a good relationship with your family
and relatives, it can pretty much tell how you would handle your new family and
friends. There is a saying that says" Charity begins at home.. I think
it's very important because they are your priority. It's getting to a week now
that i got into the Christianmingle site.. Can you tell me what happened? I like
to learn from others.. please do share with me..What do you have to do today
being Saturday? I am going to do some chores today and later go out to check
with the freelancers what they are doing at the working site. I might also be
going out for a long walk and other exercises depending on the time i will be
back from the inspection at the working site. I had some prayers before i got
into the christianmingle site and i am hoping on God for an answer, which i
think is around the corner. If there is something you don't understand about me,
kindly let me know, ask me any question. Can you please send me some pictures of
you. May you have a good day..
Heart That Cares,
Ronald.
****
November 10, 2013:
Good evening xxxx,
I am very grateful for the email and the beautiful
pictures of your and your family.. You're gorgeous xxxx and you have got a nice
people. Without being told i can tell that you are a
very nice person who doesn't want any problem. I have not had any experience on
the ChristiaNmingle site, maybe i should say it's good for me so far because i
found you there. You see, I have a policy of maintaining a monogamous
friendship.. I won't communicate with anyone else until i have a reason to do
so.. I am with you now and i like the way we are growing fond of each other. I
am cool with us writing emails and all that until you feels comfortable to
communicate on the phone, though telephone has a way of making it look real and
direct when talking on the phone and knowing each others voice.
What
did yiu do today being Sunday? I went to church and also went out to visit a
colleague who has been sick.. It has been a good dau so far, thank God for
everything. I am going to have my dinner soon..I have attached a picture of me
and my daughters and a friend. Have a great Sunday evening with a warm
hug..
****
November 13, 2013:
Good Evening xxxx, How was your day? Mine was a bit busy, i am just walking in from
work now. My daughters are twin and they are namely, Mary and Gloria..What a
lovely pics, thanks for sharing with me.. What a blessing the man of God impacted in you last Sunday.. I felt the same here, the pastor was very comprehensive in his preaching and
everything was well understood. It's always good to be in the house of God
xxxx Wow i understand your believe honey, I think it's a great thing to also implement
the laws of our ancestors provided they are not detrimental to us. You don't
have to bother your self about what the present government are doing i think
they we realize one day and go back to the old system.. What did you do today? I
am done at work and just had my dinner not long ago. You are a perfect picture
of what i am looking for sweetie.. I can see all the qualities in what you are
saying.. I hope my prayers at the church on Sunday will workout soon. I told
God to continually showing and revealing more about our selves to each one of
us. I wish i could have a warm hug and a kiss, anyway let me just get it from
your picture lol.. and maybe you can feel it right now.. Have a good
evening..
Yours Always,
Ronald.
****
November 16, 2013:
Good Morning xxxx, I just woke up with thoughts of you. How are you doing today? I
can see that you are almost a workaholic.. Please always make sure you don't do
overtime.Your job is something that has to do with your
brain and you need to always give it a good rest. I am not really sure on how to
answer this question.. I know there are parts in Northern Belgium that speaks
Dutch and they are called the Flemish tribe. Don't worry i will make inquiry
and get you the right answer.. My mom is 77years old now and she is still
healthy and fine..My dad 82 and he is still much ok.. I came from a family that
has an history of longevity.. Darling xxxx, i think i need to hear your voice
soon. I want to hear the voice that is behind all these beautiful letters.. I
will look forward to that soon. My regards to your family. Have a great
day..
****
November 18, 2013:
Good Morning xxxx, It's a blessed new week beginning and our God has promised
to grant us all our heart desires.. I am glad you went to church, i did went to
church as well and i enjoyed the sermon which says" Redeem Your Relationship
with God..The man of God made some point on how we can redeem our relationship
with God so that he can be closer to us in all our difficulties. It's an
inspiring topic and i grabbed a lot on it. My both grand and immediate parents
are from Koekelberg, a municipal in Brussels State...They were all catholic, i
was also born in Catholic. I just read your second email and found that you left
me your number there.. Thanks for sharing i will text you before leaving fro
work now.. May you have a great day..
****
November 19, 2013: (the plagiarized Christmas
“memory”)
Good Morning xxxx,
How are you this morning? I woke up sound and strong and will be going o work
soon. It's a good thing to be in the house of God often. You must have benefited
a lot on that topic“Be true, kind, and grateful. I have not started any
Christmas decoration yet,, maybe first week of December i would start setting up
some stuffs. I
have been truly blessed with several Christmas memories throughout the years.
There have been many Christmases and many memories. However, my favorite
Christmas memory occurred when I was seven years old. Although today's typical
seven years old child do not believe in Santa , during my childhood, my
community of seven year old friends did. Not only did we believe in him, we
could not waiting until Christmas morning to get the one toy, fruit, nuts and
candy that he always brought us. Each Christmas morning, my parents would
enthusiastically get me and my sisters out of bed (we were already awake with
anxiety and anticipation), take us to the living room and point out who gets
what. We dared not open our eyes or got up on our own for fear that if Santa saw
us looking as he distributed the gifts, he would spit in our eyes. They would
marvel at the number of "Oh Golly" they heard as each of us saw our one $1.99
unwrapped gift. They then gave themselves Invisible pats on the back for a job
well done. But my seven years old Christmas was different. It made me realized
that Santa was really real. Anyone could come down the chimney and deposit toys,
nuts and candy under a Christmas tree. But only Santa could be responsible for
what took place..Sweetie,
i have to rush out now.. We can continue from telephone.. Have a great
day..
****
November 23, 2013:
Good Morning Sweetheart, How are was your night? I got me thinking about you all night after
our conversation.. You are a nice person and i have no reason to lose such a
beautiful heart like you. I would call you my Honey Bunny, I think we deserve
each other.. I just looked at the beautiful pictures of you and your family's..
They look great.. I will like to meet them someday and let them know how much i
care about you. It inspires me to read
from you everyday.. I am sorry for my short comings.. I will make it up to you.
I also like the fact that you are curious about what i do. I am into industrial
installation of containment and cable support systems wiring. I also
disintegrate and dismantles heavy power transformers and enables the current
& voltage magnitude to change from primary to secondary (and vice versa).. I
have worked in shopping malls, ships, oil platform, factory and stadiums..We
handles the wiring and electrification works. Although people have always said
to me,, what you are doing is a dangerous job, yes it could be but i am already
used to it and i will have a reason to stop it only when i am settled with my
partner. I don't have much to do today.. I will go out to supervise and inspect
what the freelancers are doing, and maybe will do some chores and keep the
environment tidy. I am also looking at going for some exercise if time permits
me, or maybe i will do that tomorrow.. I will text or call you later on baby..
Thank you for coming into my life. You are most welcome to my world..A warm hug
and a kiss to you.. Have a great day..
****
November 27, 2013
Honey it was a pleasure to hear your voice this morning.. I am now
going through all the emails and the beautiful pictures you sent to me.. You are
a very hardworking and creative woman.. They looked totally beautiful, I like it..
I was totally convinced that this woman
cares so much about us as much as i do even though my work and other errands are
occupying my time temporary. Our God will never
let you down for keeping to his word. I was born into a Christian home and my
parents lived an exemplary life, they did not separate no matter the argument
they will always make up and keep going. I am the first of two. I and my younger
sister who is now living with his husband and 3 kids in Scotland.. We were all
nurtured in the way of God. I am very close to my family and they knows
everything about me. I couldn't help it, but to tell them about us. I
understand how difficult it can be to keep up on emails and telephone.. It is
just for a while. I will be available to be with you and make you the woman of
my dream. I want to let the whole world around me know that i am in love
again.. My work schedules is going to come to an end before 2 weeks.. I will
start wrapping up this next week Monday..I feel like i
need you to make me feel like a man.. I want to be with you, kiss you and
caress you. I want to be able to express my love and feeling in every ways..
I am in love with you xxxx, Pleas don't stop being the way you are.. I'm sorry cos i have to end
my letter here, let me rush back to work.. May you have a great and productive
day..
Yours Always,
Ronald.
****
December 4, 2013:
Good Morning Love, I am sorry for my late response to your emails.
I think you are right about my daughter taking it from
their dad.. They are pretty cool and loving, they both like pink and Mary likes
blue while Gloria likes black. I am close to both parents but i think i am more
closer to mom in some areas.. There are things i don't share with dad, i only
relate them to mom.. Like the first time i took alcohol, mom was the first
person to know until a year and half before dad finds out..My father was a nice
person but he doesn't tolerate any nonsense.. He often scold us and punishes us
when we are wrong.. I could remember the first day i went out with friends to a
night club..It was like the whole heaven fell on me that day. He brought out his
gun and swear that he is going to kill me today and beg God for forgiveness..I
could remember one of the verses he uses to punish us whenever we do something
wrong.. (Proverbs 23:13).. One thing i remember about my grandparent was that
they were hard working and they would like to visit the farm always, to weed and
keep it clean.. they just can't stay without doing something. I figured that it
is good for them cause it's away of keeping the body busy and sorts of exercise
to them at their age. My mom took it up from them and she still have a farm land
now.. I feel so good that i was able to put a smile on your face and that your
friends have noticed it.. This is just the beginning sweetheart. I have a lot to
offer and i want to make you the most happiest woman. Honey, i am a very
romantic person, i like a lot of togetherness. I would like to hold hands and be
all over you. I am proud of you and will let everyone know that i am in love
with you. I don't have any problem with meeting any friend or family members.. I
am confident of who i am. Your family would become my family.. I have to be
reading and responding to your letters gradually.. I just left you this few
lines to let you know that i am very grateful for all your efforts, cares and
love..Let me rush out as time is against me now.. I will write more later. .I
love you always.
****
December 9, 2013:
Good Afternoon Love, I am most happy that the lord chose me to be a part of your life
now. As the day goes bye, i keep seeing so many reason why he brought you to me.
I feel the same way.. I enjoyed all our conversation.I know that is going to be
very great when we will be together soon. I feel like i have known you for
years. Have we met in our previous world lol? I see our parents
as our earthly Gods and therefore we should respect and treat then right no
matter the circumstances, because they are now behaving like a child.. Life its
self goes like a circle of metamorphosis, we grow from being parents to children
again. Honey, let me get meeting now.. I will look
forward to talking with you..I love you
always..
Postscript:
I have copies of the many texts he sent to me as well as the audio of his voicemails.
He continued to text me after I sent him a final email, letting him know I KNEW he was trying to scam me. Like any anti-social/psychopathic personality, he attempted to blame ME for his lies.
This shows he is a dangerous individual. Please be careful if you deal with him!
Christian Mingle profile:
Ronald Rafael ID: CAUGHTEN
My Introduction
I am a family oriented man who is happy, friendly, open minded and and loving. I enjoylaughing, infact love humors in my everyday life activities. I am very secure and myfamily, relatives and friends are very important to me. I like to look good so i dress to my satisfaction and keep cleanliness. I am looking to meet someone with similar interest who is ready to welcome life the way it is and hope for a better days with love, passions, humors and adventures..
Info About Me
· Height:5' 11" (180 cm)
· Build:Average
· Hair:Gray
· Eyes:Brown
· Relationship Status:Divorced
· About Children:I have children and would welcome yours
· Children:2
· Children home:0
· Smoking:Never
· Drinking:On occasion
· Church I was raised in:Pentecostal
· Church I attend now:Pentecostal
· Church Attendance:every week
· Education:Bachelor's degree
· Field of Work:Electrician
· Ethnicity:Caucasian / White
· Languages Spoken:English, French
Fun Facts
· Self-description:Calm and Resilient
· Music:Blues, Gospel, Jazz, Pop/Top 40, Praise & Worship, Reggae, Religious Music
· Movie:Action/Adventure, Comedy, Documentary, Musical, Romance, Science Fiction
· Outdoor activity:Basketball, Sports/Athletics, Swimming, Traveling/Sightseeing
· Indoor activity:Cars, Dancing, Music, Restaurants, Shopping, Sports
· My idea of a great trip:fly to an island
· Food:Chinese, European, French, Italian, Mexican, Seafood
· Favorite restaurants:French Kitchen
· Politics:Moderate
· Schools attended:Kent University, Brussels
· Timeliness:I am usually on time
· As for fashion:I dress to be comfortable
***Update January 3, 2014: "Ronald" was reported to Pigbusters.net on December 20th. I have written to them and will give them all of the info I have on this page, including pictures.
IP information as of 12/20/13 from http://www.iplocation.net/index.php: Top of Form
IP Address:
Bottom of Form
Here are the results from a few Geolocation providers. Accuracy of geolocation data may vary from a provider to provider. Test drive yourself, and decide on the provider that you like.
Geolocation data from IP2Location (Product: DB4)
IP Address
Country
Region
City
ISP
98.138.229.29
United States
Nebraska
Omaha
Yahoo! Inc.
Google Map for OMAHA, NEBRASKA, UNITED STATES (New window)
Geolocation data from IPligence (Product: Max)
IP Address
Country
Region
City
ISP
98.138.229.29
United States
California
Sunnyvale
Yahoo Inc.
Continent
Latitude
Longitude
Time Zone
North America
37.3701
-122.03
PST
Google Map for SUNNYVALE, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES (New window)
Geolocation data from IP Address Labs (Product: Pro)
IP Address
Country
Region
City
ISP
98.138.229.29
United States
California
Sunnyvale
Yahoo!
Continent
Latitude
Longitude
Organization
North America
37.4249
-122.0074
Yahoo
Google Map for SUNNYVALE, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES (New window)
Geolocation data from MaxMind (Product: GeoLiteCity)
IP Address
Country
Region
City
Postal Code
Area Code
98.138.229.29
United States
CA
Sunnyvale
94089
408
Google Map for Sunnyvale, CA, USA (New window)