Introduction to the Scheme
A Houston man, James Eric Barnes, 46, has been accused of operating a Facebook Marketplace scheme that involved stealing and reselling nearly half a million dollars in backup power generators. This scheme could land him up to life in prison if convicted.
How the Scheme Worked
Barnes allegedly used stolen credit cards to purchase generators from more than 30 Texas businesses in various cities, including Austin, Beaumont, Brookshire, Dallas, and San Antonio. He would then sell these generators at significantly discounted prices on Facebook Marketplace. The generators were originally purchased for around $7,000 to $10,000 but were resold for much cheaper.
The Resale Process
According to Harris County Precinct 1 Constable Alan Rosen, Barnes would hire Craigslist drivers to pick up the generators and then stage them at another location. Once staged, he would post them for sale on Facebook Marketplace, often at prices thousands of dollars lower than their original cost. This process allowed him to make a substantial profit from the resale of stolen goods.
Extent of the Scheme
The investigation into Barnes’ activities revealed that he and his accomplices attempted to steal over $900,000 worth of generators. However, many of these purchases were stopped before the items could be shipped. It’s estimated that about two generators were sold every week for a year, resulting in losses of over $470,000 for the more than 30 Texas companies targeted since 2023.
Additional Crimes
Barnes is also accused of illegally obtaining lawnmowers and reselling them. He used multiple aliases, including John Hoover, Michael Martin, and Ronny Martin, to carry out these sales. The use of aliases suggests a level of sophistication and an attempt to evade detection.
Potential Consequences
If convicted of the first-degree felony, Barnes could face up to life in prison. The investigation is ongoing, and Constable Rosen expects more individuals to be charged as it continues. The scheme not only targeted businesses that provide essential emergency supplies but also preyed on individuals seeking to protect their homes and families during disasters.
Conclusion
The case of James Eric Barnes highlights the importance of vigilance and security in online marketplaces. It also underscores the severe consequences that can result from engaging in large-scale theft and resale schemes. As the investigation unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor how law enforcement and online platforms work together to prevent such activities in the future. The potential for life imprisonment serves as a stark reminder of the gravity of these crimes and the need for robust measures to combat them.
