I fell victim to a scam

I purchased a piece of audio equipment from an Audiogoner with 0 feedback. The Paypal account was unverified as well. I thought, "I was a newbie once, everyone has to start someplace". I've performed dozens of internet transactions and have never been burned, until now.

I received a tracking number "billing information received"... But no product was ever shipped. I was burned out of a decent amount of cash. I won't starve, but I'm pissed. Paypal was useless in helping. They basically told me that Paypal protects Paypal. Audiogon does not disclose account information either.

I have started a police investigation, and they have obtained a search warrant to get the address and bank records of the seller. I'm not holding my breath to catch him though.

If he (or she) is an amateur, then the bank records may lead me to him. If he is a pro, then I guess there is a way to launder the cash.

I mean, Paypal either wires the money to his bank, or cuts him a check. Is there a way to track this? Any Lawyers out there want to chime in?

Part of me is tempted to spend the money to find this person (or people) and prosecute. Am I spinning my wheels?

As I search through other Audiogon adds, I see other suspicious deals. Zero feedback, too good to be true deals. Obviously, I'll do my homework next time...