The response made us feel criminal.

What resources do I need to effectively screen tenants, how do I run their credit or criminal history?

Once we have a completed application, we verify income (by calling the employer and/or with paystubs), verify previous address history (this will show up on the credit check, we ask about any addresses that show up on the credit check but are not listed on their application), and verify identity by requesting a copy of their photo ID to make sure their info matches the application and screening reports.Next, we run credit, criminal, and eviction reports.

(Criminal record or evictions or something?) 

You should consult an attorney to determine whether you can exclude applicants with a criminal history, even sex offenders in your area.

CRIMINAL DEFENSE DIVISIONCalifornia Civil Code § 2945.4 CC – Foreclosure Consultant Violations - https://www.shouselaw.com/ca/defense/civil-code/2945-4/  

HUGE time saver.Individual property accounting - keep track of how profitable (or not) each individual property (or unit) is.App for tenants - so they can look at their balance, make payments, report maintenance issues.Rental applications and tenant screening - Accept online rental applications and then run credit, criminal, eviction checks on them easily.Market your vacancies - getting a vacant unit filled with a good tenant as quick as possible is critical, and good software will help you market those vacancies. 

We know for a FACT these  criminals are STILL in business working and stealing people's money! 

Or should i say criminal behavior which doing this and wiring in your money then they go dark on you is of course a criminal act.

The tenants are just poor, not necessarily criminals, although some are.PP range from 10-22k a unit, a mix of houses and duplexes... rents range from 375 for a small 1 bed to 650 for a 3 bed house.