Selling things on Facebook can be dangerous, SC cops say after teen is arrested

The internet can be dangerous and connecting with people you meet on social media is a risk.

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That’s what one South Carolina law enforcement agency said as it issued a warning to people who meet to make transactions after connecting online.

The warning comes after a teenager dubbed the Facebook Marketplace bandit was recently taken into custody, according to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office.

The teen, who was not publicly identified because they’re a minor, is accused of robbing three people in separate incidents, the sheriff’s office said late Friday night in a news release. The robberies happened in Pinewood, where the victims were expecting to make a Facebook Marketplace transaction, according to the release.

Information about when the robberies happened, and if any weapons were involved, was not available. No injuries were reported.

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An investigation followed, leading deputies to a Pinewood juvenile who witnesses believed was the suspect in the robberies, the sheriff’s office said.

Investigators searched the juvenile’s home and found items reported stolen in the robberies, according to the release. Deputies detained the teenager and contacted one of their parents before transporting them to a South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice facility, the sheriff’s office said.

There was no word about what is next for the juvenile, but the sheriff’s office did offer advice for anyone looking to make a transaction based on a Facebook Marketplace advertisement.

Staying safe at an online sale

Authorities’ suggestions to reduce the possibility of being a victim of crime:

• Bring Someone: Never go to an exchange by yourself; bring a friend or family member
• Find a Safe Zone: Meet in a public place with video surveillance, law enforcement agency offices are ideal
• Daytime Only: Conduct meetings only during daylight hours
• Share Details: Tell someone else where you are going, who you are meeting, and share your live location
• Dealbreakers: No last-minute changes! Reject sudden requests to change the meeting spot to a private residence or secluded area. If they refuse to meet at a law enforcement agency’s office or headquarters, cancel the deal!
• Messenger Only: If you are using Facebook Marketplace, you are already using Messenger to communicate with the other person and there is no need to share your phone number, address, or personal information beyond what is on your Facebook profile and be wise about what you make public on your page
• Trust Your Gut: Walk away immediately if something feels suspicious

SOURCE: Sumter County Sheriff’s Office