there are some great members here on fabo

In this case, I don't think there was any intentional "scamming" going on. It seems like it was just a lack of communication.
Not gonna make excuses for anyone, but life happens. Sometimes crap can spiral out of control if you aren't careful.
Glad we were able to help out, but we didn't show up to intimidate, just a calm, casual conversation, and the good will to help both parties out is all it took to sort it out.
Treat people how you would like to be treated.