Ever dream about becoming an actor or model? The excitement of Sunday's Emmy awards could entice many people, but beware of a scam where bogus agents promise to launch careers.

Authorities say there is a man who bilked hopeful Los Angeles residents with that type of scam, and they warn he may now be working in a town near you.

Christopher Valentino claimed those who wanted to become actors or models needed a guy like him. He was videotaped pretending to be a big Hollywood talent agent by undercover investigators for the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office.

In the videotape, Valentino said the first thing the client had to do was get new photos -- often called "head shots" -- for which the client would have to pay about $400. But the real service he claimed to offer was connecting his clients with all the Hollywood big shots he allegedly knew.

Patrick Seitz was one of the hopeful actors who paid for photographs that Valentino said he'd show to producers and casting directors.

"Valentino never made any introductions of the type that he had promised," Seitz said.

Los Angeles city attorney Rocky Delgadillo says it's an all too common scam.

"What actually happens is that they pay all this money for the photographs, the casting kit, for the lessons, the coaching, whatever it might be and ultimately they get nothing," Delgadillo said.

Several people complained about Valentino's operation. The city attorney's office charged Valentino with conspiracy and grand theft. He was convicted, but fled before authorities could put him in jail, possibly to the New York area.

"We hope to extradite him here to Los Angeles and make sure that he suffers from the full weight of the law," Delgadillo said.

Delgadillo is trying to publicize the case to warn people against the scam and to catch Valentino.

If you have any information about Christopher Valentino, you can call (877) LA-CARES.

Scam Tips

Be wary if any talent agency requires an advance fee or refers you to a photographer.

The Screen Actors Guild helps investigate talent agencies. You can find more about SAG on the Internet.

Some states require agencies to have a license. Check with your local authorities.

You can always check an agency's history with your local Better Business Bureau.