TLDR; read the last two paragraphs.... I have some poor stray cat stuck in my tree - he's been there for at least 12 hours. I called the Des Moines Police because ARL told me to, but the female police dispatcher very snarkily told me that they don't do anything because "cats know how to get out of trees." I hope she's right. I told her I'd send her a picture

For everyone's safety, meet in a public place and never send money to strangers to recover a pet. Verify anyone who claims a pet before arranging a meeting.