help! I think I am going to get craigslist scammed in the bayarea.. non watch related

[J72]

I saw a car used for sale on craigslist I liked the price and i checked the car out.
I had put a $1000 check as deposit.. the guy said he didnt have the paperworks yet as he just decided to sell it and he told me i had to put a down if i was serious.

so I did and he told me that he will be paying capital one the balance and will get the paperwork within 3 working days. he cashed the check next day when the bank was opened...

I checked craigslist a day after and the ad was still there.. so i got curious and asked a friend to call to check if it is still for sale.
the same car is still for sale and the guy is still showing the same car to other buyers.

I called the police to check what I can do and they told me i have to file on the small claims court before they can do anything.

I have not confronted the guy as i think if i do he will just run away so he doesnt know anything and he still talks to me.


any advice appreciated..