How can I get money back from this American pig

I had been dated this american guy for 3 years.Different cities ( 3 hours drive). He had asked for money from me for many times for his "business".He didn't get any until this April.I lent him $12,000 in April,he crossed the word on the left bottom"for reason" while he deposited it.And he borrowed another $ 5,000 in May.Now he won't answer my phone calls,nor my emails while I ask the money back. I have some antique chinese furnitures at his place too. I was so stupid that didn't ask for a witten note at the beginning.What am I going to do?
1st:I have copies of checks from back to prove that those money went to him.Can he claim that money as a gift?I don't think any american will give his $17,000 to any one for gift.Will judge believe in his story?
2nd: He is doing a network marketing now.That means he is in public.U can check him out by typing his name.But....His degree is faked,the school gave him a dotoral degree by attending a 2 weeks program.Google has the court order to that school for illegally provide the degrees to people. He has a 3 class criminal charge for "IND(indecency)with Child" in 1994.
I just found it out 2 days ago online.
My questions are: what kind of lawyer do I need? What's the chance I can win the lawsuit? Is it legal that I post his story online or mail the proofs( I have pic of his degree,but not the copy) to his business partners and friends?
I know I'm very very stupid.I hate myself.Especially while i think about my parents. If i gave those money to my parents.They would be so happy.I had been trying to break up with him so many times....but he was so good on promise...u know as the other liars,he is so good on making up stories.
I'm depressed enough. So please please just give some legal advice.