The list of dating websites and cell phone apps continues to grow. From Match, Tinder, to Christian Mingle and everything in between, love is at your fingertips. But as you look for love, don't be blindsided when it comes to your safety. A few years back Maren Roth, like a lot of singles, simply wanted to find a nice person to spend time with.
After a bit of motivation from a family member, she decided online dating was the way to go. I really had to come around to the idea that okay, I'm going to do this," said Roth. I'd meet somebody who was actually looking for a relationship as opposed to just a hook-up," said Roth.
Marc Desrosier caught her eye. After a few messages back and forth, they decided to go out. Neither knew where things would lead. Turns out, it was an immediate love connection.
The couple is now married with a young daughter. The pair are also the owners of two Short North clothing boutiques. I knew I wanted to meet somebody. I knew I wanted a future, family, and I told him that," said Roth. Their love story was certainly a positive experience. Unfortunately, not all end that way. It turned out, he'd previously served time for aggravated stalking and assault.
You don't necessarily know who they are. You don't know if they're telling you the truth," said Columbus area police officer Don Stanko. Stanko has spent years as an police officer in the Columbus area. Also working with the local non-profit, Digital Danger. The organizations focus is to give folks the tools they need to stay safe as they navigate the potentially rough waters of the web. Anymore, it's becoming the norm," said Stanko. Experts said there are a few things to remember when dating online: always meet at a public location, never give your work or home address, and never provide any personal information.
