Police warn of online dating dangers

AUBURNDALE (FOX 13) - When Adam Hilarie set up his date through the site Plenty of Fish, little did he know he was setting up the final date, of his life.

"I would hope that people can learn from this and just really take care of themselves and be really careful," said his brother Angel Cruz.

Auburndale Police believe 18-year-old Halie Bustos planned to set-up Hilarie all along.

She and three others have been arrested for killing him in cold blood.

"I think the plan was that he gets robbed and that they take his stuff. I'm not sure why the shooting occurred," said Auburndale Police Deputy Chief Andy Ray.

This case and others like it calling into question the safety of using sites like Plenty of Fish.

"It is still a stranger you're going to meet for the first time in person," said Tampa Police spokesperson Eddy Durkin.

Here are a few things to keep in mind, when using dating apps or sites.

Do as much research as you can. Google the person. Check their social media accounts.  Be an online sleuth.

Meet in a public place.  "You want people to know where you are, where you're going to be. Have a time frame," said Durkin. 

Experts say you shouldn't go home with someone on the first date.

"You want to keep your personal information personal," Durkin said.