Online Meeting Leads to Robbery at Gunpoint in Alexandria

The Alexandria Police Department is investigating a robbery that occurred on S. Van Dorn Street on Saturday night, Oct. 4, according to a news release from the police department.

At approximately 6:30 p.m., a man and woman met with another woman to buy a phone from an online ad. The couple was then confronted by two men, one who brandished a weapon and robbed the victims of cash, cell phones and a purse, according to a report on RAIDS Online. The three suspects then fled the area.

After a thorough investigation, Corey Lewis, 18, of Alexandria, was charged with Robbery and Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon. He is being held without bond.

Anyone with information about this incident or the suspects is asked to contact Detective Ryan Clinch with the Alexandria Police Department at 703.746.6673.

A few tips from the Alexandria Police Department regarding buying and selling products through online advertisements such as Craigslist:

1. Trust your instincts; if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

2. Do not go alone; take your cell phone with you.

3. Insist the meet occur at a public place; do not meet in a secluded area.

4. If someone attempts to change locations at the last minute, cancel the transaction.

5. Perform the transaction during daylight hours.

6. Be cautious when buying/selling high value items.

PHOTO: Alexandria Police car/Patch archive