A Suffolk, Virginia man made the frightening transition from sneaker seller to robbery victim.
The victim told police he communicated with and arranged the meeting with the suspect through Facebook Messenger to sell a pair sneakers.
At the prearranged location, 11 a.m. Monday morning in the 400 block of Bank Street, the suspect showed a firearm, taking custody of the sneakers before hightailing on foot. The suspect has yet to be identified but he’s described as a black male wearing a mask and a black and bleached hooded sweatshirt.
The case has spurred Suffolk Police to remind would-be buyers and sellers that they have video surveilled safe meeting zones. The first being Suffolk Police Headquarters, located at 111 Henley Place; this location offers a 24-hour lobby. The other is from 8 a.m to 5 p.m. at the Sector II precinct located at 3903 Bridge Road.
Suffolk Police also provided these tips, that while they seem like they should be common sense, are not adhered to nearly enough:
· Never meet someone alone; take a friend with you.
· If the buyer or seller is reluctant to give you their name, phone number or wants to meet in a secluded area, do not go to the meeting.
· If at all possible, always meet at a safe meeting location such as a Police Precinct.
· Try to meet in a well-lit and very public place.
· If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Individuals with inoformation pertinent to this case can anonymously submit tips by calling ( and I am not making this up) 1-888-LOCK-U-UP (562-5887), downloading the P3 tips application or tips can be submitted online at www.P3tips.com.
