Richmond rent scam victims pile up; scammer skips town after posting bail

The story continues to develop about a woman who was running a rent deposit scam on an outer Richmond District apartment rental at 5631 California.

As more victims come forward, it appears that Rachel Smith may have stolen rent deposits from over 20 people. Smith would show potential renters the apartment, have them sign a lease and then take a deposit for as much as $5,600. Smith would then create an excuse shortly thereafter as to why she couldn’t let them move in right away. Then, she would disappear, not returning phone calls or emails. Authorities estimate she stole nearly $100,000 from her victims.

A new website has popped up, scammedbysmith.com, in an effort to organize victims for a meetup next week. It is being run by two of her victims, known only as Mat and Harper. Mat notes on the website that the building owner was also scammed by Smith – she skipped out without paying her July rent.

Anyone who believes they may be a victim of Smith’s rent deposit scam is instructed to call Inspector John Monroe at 553-1936.

Smith was arrested this week but after posting bail, skipped town with a U-HAUL in tow according to SFist. Police have released her photo and are asking anyone with information on Smith’s whereabouts to call the SFPD at 553-1521.

Why this woman was allowed to post bail and not considered a flight risk is a total mystery to me.

Sarah B.