Round Rock Man Trying To Sell Watch Gets Robbed, Pistol-Whipped

ROUND ROCK, TX — A man who tried selling an Apple watch was instead robbed and pistol whipped when he met the person who expressed an interest in buying the item, according to a published report.

According to an arrest affidavit referenced by the Austin American-Statesman, the victim was transported to the hospital for treatment of injuries to the face, head and back. The incident occurred just past 4:40 p.m. on Friday in the parking lot of the Montelena Apartments, 2501 Louis Henna Blvd., according to the affidavit.

According to the report, the victim was selling the watch for $320 on the "Offerup" phone app before meeting with the prospective buyer, identified as Isaiah Moore, 30, of Manor. Moore said he wanted to sync his cell phone to the watch but the victim prevented that from happening unless a sale was made, the Statesman reported.

It was then that Moore, sitting in a PT Cruiser with the driver's door open, allegedly grabbed the victim to pull him inside the vehicle while pointing a gun at him, according to the report. The victim told police he fought back as Moore allegedly punched him in the face twice. The victim also told police Moore pulled the trigger of the gun but the weapon failed to discharge, according to the affidavit. The two then fell to the ground before Moore allegedly struck the victim in the back of the head with the gun.

Moore has been charged with aggravated robbery, a first-degree felony punishable by up to 99 years in prison. He's being held at the Williamson County Jail with bail set at $200,000.

Police department offers "Safety Exchange Zones"

Some residents accustomed to selling items via apps or social media are unaware that the Round Rock Police Department offers so-called "Safety Exchange Zones" where such exchanges can be conducted under the watchful eye of law enforcement.

The police department public parking area and lobby have been designated as Safety Exchange Zones during normal business hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Moreover, those who prefer a location away from their homes to exchange goods purchased online or by classifieds can make arrangements to meet at 2701 N. Mays St.

The police department created the safety zones to help deter fraudulent transactions and assist in maintaining privacy of residents, according to an advisory on the City of Round Rock website. These locations can also be used for custodial exchanges, police noted.

Safety Exchange Zones are under video surveillance at all times. Those availing themselves of this offering should note that the police department is not responsible for the validity of transactions, and will not be involved nor oversee, the business conducted between participating parties. For more information on the Safety Exchange Zone call (512) 218-5500.

Get Patch's Daily Newsletter and Real Time Alerts

>>> Read the full story at Austin American-Statesman

Isaiah Moore booking photos via Williamson County Jail records