MONROE, NC — A teenager is facing charges for robbing people in Monroe using Facebook Marketplace.
According to the Monroe Police Department, the suspect had the victim meet him at 901 E. Sunset Dr on December 7th. The victim was selling an iPhone to the teen. The two were communicating using Facebook Marketplace. When the victim arrived, the teen pointed a gun at the victim, stole the phone and ran away.
The next week, Monroe PD said the suspect robbed again. On December 15th, the teen met another victim while using Marketplace. Again, the suspect made sure they met on E. Sunset Dr despite the victim requesting they meet at a more populated parking lot. This time, MPD said he stole a pair of high-end sneakers.
The teens identity will not be released due to his age. He will be charged with robbery.
Detectives will charge the teenager through the Department of Juvenile Justice for these robberies.Β His identity cannot be released due to his age.Β
Monroe Police suggests the following when using FB Marketplace:Β
-Meet in a safe public place (example: your local police department parking lot)
-Take a friend or relative with you
-Never have people come to your house
-Never share personal information and only communicate through messenger
-Be cautious of someone who urges or pushes
-Avoid deals that seem too good to be true
-Avoid sellers/buyers who have few profile photos or posts (these are likely scams)
-Your safety is most important, if something does not seem right then it likely isnβt
