🚨 Police Search for 2 Teens Accused of Series of Facebook Marketplace Robberies 🚔
Authorities are actively searching for two teenage suspects accused of committing a string of robberies through Facebook Marketplace transactions.

📌 How the Marketplace Robberies Happened
According to police reports, the teens would arrange meet-ups with sellers under the pretense of buying high-value items such as:
✔ iPhones & MacBooks
✔ Gaming consoles (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch)
✔ Expensive sneakers & collectibles

Once meeting in person, instead of completing the transaction, the suspects would rob the sellers—sometimes at gunpoint.

📌 Police Investigation & Current Updates
🚔 Law enforcement believes the suspects have been using fake Facebook accounts to lure victims into unsafe locations.
🔍 Surveillance footage and cell phone tracking have helped identify the suspects, but they remain at large.
📌 Most robberies took place in isolated areas where sellers were less likely to get help.

💡 Authorities urge victims to report any similar incidents and warn Facebook Marketplace users to take extra precautions when arranging in-person sales.

📌 How to Stay Safe When Selling or Buying on Facebook Marketplace
🔥 Follow these tips to avoid getting scammed or robbed:

✅ Meet in a Safe Location – Always choose a well-lit, public place with surveillance (e.g., police station, mall parking lot).
✅ Bring Someone With You – Never meet strangers alone for transactions.
✅ Avoid Cash Deals – Use digital payment methods to avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
✅ Trust Your Instincts – If the buyer/seller seems sketchy, cancels, or pressures you, walk away.
✅ Look for Red Flags – Fake profiles, low friend count, new accounts, vague responses.

💡 PRO TIP: Many police stations offer safe exchange zones specifically for Marketplace transactions!

🚔 Final Thoughts: Marketplace Safety Comes First!
Facebook Marketplace is a great tool for buying and selling, but criminals use it too. If you recognize the suspects or have any information, contact local law enforcement immediately.

👉 QUESTION: Have you ever had a suspicious encounter on Facebook Marketplace? Share your experience below! 🚨

Houston police are actively searching for two teenagers suspected of orchestrating a series of at least 15 robberies linked to Facebook Marketplace transactions between September 21 and November 24, 2024. �
KHOU

Suspects Identified:

Arlando Lyles (17 years old): Wanted for aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon and theft from person.�
FOX 26 Houston
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KHOU
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Christian Ray Pickett (18 years old): Wanted for theft from person.�
KHOU
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San Francisco Chronicle
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Modus Operandi:

The suspects allegedly created fake profiles on Facebook Marketplace, posing as sellers to lure victims to predetermined locations, primarily parks and apartment complexes in Houston's west and southeast areas. Initially, they assaulted victims to steal money, but their tactics have escalated to using firearms during the robberies. �
Yahoo
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KHOU
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FOX 26 Houston
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Safety Recommendations:

To mitigate risks when conducting online transactions:�
CT Insider

Meet in Public Places: Preferably at local police stations or well-lit, busy public areas.�

Verify Profiles: Engage with profiles that have a history of activity and positive reviews.�

Avoid Night Meetings: Schedule transactions during daylight hours.�

Bring a Companion: Avoid meeting strangers alone.�
KHOU

Call to Action:

Authorities urge anyone with information on these suspects or related incidents to contact Crime Stoppers of Houston at (713) 222-TIPS or visit www.crime-stoppers.org.�
FOX 26 Houston