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Fake Money, Real Crime: Virtual Coins Stolen From Fordham Student
By
Rebecca Fishbein
Published Aug 11, 2012
Modified Aug 11, 2012
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By
Rebecca Fishbein
Published Aug 11, 2012
Modified Aug 11, 2012
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Has the economy sunk so low we're reduced to the theft of virtual money? Today, the Post reports that two Fordham University students were robbed last month of nearly 5 billion "magic" coins used as currency in the (free) online fantasy game, RuneScape. And what better way to rob someone of fake money than with a fake gun?
Massachusetts resident Humza Bajwa, 19, allegedly made a deal with Fordham University student Jonathan Dokler to purchase the coins for $3,300 actual dollars, and Dokler sent buddy David Emani to make the trade. But when the two met up, Emani noticed Bajwa's cash was also fake. Emani called Bajwa out on the trickery, but Bajwa brandished a realistic BB gun and scared Emani off. "I whispered, 'Take it easy, man. No need for that gun," Emani said. "I couldn't believe I was about to get shot over RuneScape." Bajwa forced Emani to call Dokler and make him transfer the promised 4.7 billion coins, then let Emani go free unscathed.
Bajwa was arrested on July 24, and has been charged with second-degree robbery and grand larceny, which could give him 15 years in (presumably real) jail if convicted.
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Rebecca Fishbein
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