I guess all throughout, you have been foolish. Why did you give him a check without taking the money and that too such a high amount? He sure was clever and has put you into deep trouble by cheating you out. I don't believe the police or the court could help you out in this situation as he has something in writing in his hand while you have only verbal promises which carry no weight at all. All I can visualize is difficult days for you ahead,
As for the comment above that you should "meet him over dinner, talk to him a nice way," it is a silly proposition and nothing new from the person who posted this comment. He has written such things many times earlier also. He keeps on giving such "philosophical" ideas every now and then.