I've never had to do anything like this... I don't normally do business over the net... or with ebay or paypal... but from what I hear... paypal isn't going the best people to help you when your are in need.

Just a couple of questions...

With paypal, don't they pay right to your account? If so, how did you get screwed? Did they refute the charge and do a "charge back" removing the $$ from you account?

When did you report to paypal? What was their response?

How much $$ are we talking?

Did you hold up to your end of the deal? Ship the correct product in a timely manner as described in your auction? Was the product delivered? Do you have proof that it was delivered? Tracking numbers and/or insurance in the shipment?

Are you sure that the info you have on the guy who screwed you is accurate?

Depends on how much $$ is involved... but you may want to get a "free consultation" with a lawyer... to see exactly what you can do and if its even worth it.

You can filed negative feedback on the guys account and he will have further problems with purchasing on ebay... not to say that he can't open another account...

A little more details of the "deal" might help us help you better.