Scammers. We heard all about the problem thanks to Dateline this past summer. (Update with more victims here.)Even though I normally dislike the negative coverage the media usually gives adoption, even I saw the value in letting folks know that adoption scammers do exist. (Though really: can we get a good, positive story about adoption on the air! Goodness!) People need to know that women (and men) like this exist. Sadly, it doesn't look like they're going away any time soon.

Another woman has been arrested and accused of scamming waiting families. This woman, a 21 year old girl in Massacheusettes, was not even pregnant but managed to scam two separate families. She told one family that she had decided to parent her child and they respected her decision. However, when they saw another post on the internet that seemed similar, they contacted local officials, sensing something was wrong. It is possible that more than two couples may have been involved. The investigation is ongoing.

Do you know what this moral scoundrel had to say when questioned about why she did it?

Interviewed by Manchester police, Duenas said she "liked the attention" and "caring" the couple gave her, police said.

I'd like to sit down and give this woman some "caring" and "attention." I cannot stand people who think it is okay to scam others. And while part of my anger lies with the innocent families who get their hearts and bankbooks tromped all over, part of that anger is selfish.

I'm sick and tired of women like this giving myself and other legitimate birthmoms a bad name. (See, I'm not always selfless. HA!) This woman not only manages to make all expectant Mothers considering adoption look like potential scammers to waiting families but, at the same time, demeans the very process that so many birthmothers have gone through in order to provide homes that they felt would best suit their child. I went about things in a legal and moral fashion as did most every other firstmother that I personally have had contact with via the internet or other venues.

I hate the black mark that these scamming women leave on my record, simply by association of topic. I hate that these women have broken hearts and stolen time and money. I also hate that these women have caused an epidemic of sorts when it comes to expectant Mothers considering adoption and how they are viewed and simultaneously doubted. In fact, I'll be talking about that epidemic next.

I really hope that this woman is convicted. I'm not one usually one who subscribes to "an eye for an eye" type of philosophy on life but, darn it, something has to give. Things like this need to stop. Yesterday!

Illustration from images.com.