EPD’s police blotter highlights from the first half of December are a good reminder: Verifying that the person tying you up is trustworthy might take some time, but it might also save you some trouble.

A 22-year-old man reported he met another male online and they began emailing back and forth. There was an agreement to meet at the 22-year-old’s apartment to play a game involving being tied up. Once the 22-year-old realized the game was getting out of hand, it was too late. The suspect loaded up anything of value and left. It took some time, but the victim was able to free himself.