Buyer Robbed In Facebook Transaction Gone Bad: Saint Paul Police

SAINT PAUL, MN — It started as a simple transaction arranged via Facebook, then took a turn for worse when the "seller" pulled out a handgun and robbed the buyer. Thankfully, officers and investigators were able to track down the 18-year-old suspect, who was recently charged with first degree aggravated robbery.

Sadly, we've had other recent reports of similar incidents where people were victimized and no one has been arrested. The Saint Paul police doesn't want others to become a victim.

If you're planning a transaction with someone you met online, police say these safety tips could save your money, possessions or life:

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• Meet in a public place whenever possible
• Bring someone with you to minimize the chance of robbery
• Meet at the buyer's bank for large purchases
• Try not to give out your home address
• Pass on offers that sound too good to be true
• Show up early
• Never go to a second location.

Criminals and fake ads are out there. Be careful and take precautions to make sure you're safe.

Photo credit: AP Photo/Elise Amendola