Houston Woman Charged with Targeting Facebook Marketplace Sellers
A woman from Houston has been charged with theft and aggravated robbery after allegedly targeting sellers on Facebook Marketplace. Alexandria Sanders, 25, has been accused of setting up and robbing multiple individuals who were trying to sell their goods online.
Introduction to the Case
According to court documents, Sanders has been charged with theft from a person on August 30, 2024, and aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon on December 17, 2024. The charges stem from two separate incidents where Sanders allegedly targeted sellers on Facebook Marketplace.
The August 30, 2024, Incident
In the first incident, Sanders arranged to meet with a person selling an iPad for $275. The seller stated that she made it clear to Sanders that the transaction would only be completed with cash. However, when they met, Sanders attempted to pay via Cash App and Venmo, but the seller insisted on cash only. Sanders then got into her vehicle and drove away with the iPad, never returning with the money. She was identified through her driver’s license, which was connected to her vehicle.
The December 17, 2024, Incident
In the second incident, Sanders expressed interest in purchasing wigs from a woman selling them on Facebook Marketplace. The two agreed to meet, and when they did, Sanders arrived with another person. As they examined the wigs, they suddenly grabbed them from the seller. When the seller attempted to retrieve her wigs, the unknown suspect accompanying Sanders pulled out a pistol and pointed it at the seller’s head. Fearing for her life, the woman stepped back, and Sanders drove away with the wigs, which were valued at $1,000.
Investigation and Charges
The seller was able to record the license plate number of the vehicle Sanders was driving, which helped investigators identify her. Sanders has been charged with theft from a person and aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon. The incidents have raised concerns about the safety of online marketplaces and the importance of taking precautions when meeting strangers to buy or sell goods.
Conclusion
The case of Alexandria Sanders serves as a reminder to be cautious when using online marketplaces to buy or sell goods. It is essential to take necessary precautions, such as meeting in public places and informing friends or family about the meeting. By being aware of potential scams and taking steps to protect ourselves, we can reduce the risk of becoming victims of online crimes.
