SOUTH BRUNSWICK – Police apprehended a suspect who allegedly stole a cell phone during a monetary exchange.
A civilian listed an iPhone for sale on the app Letgo and was contacted by a buyer, who showed interest in buying the phone on Nov. 25, according to information provided by the South Brunswick Police Department on Dec. 6.
The two arranged to meet in the parking lot of a business on Route 1 at 10 p.m. on Nov. 28, police said. The suspect reportedly arrived on foot, and after discussing terms, the suspect asked to see the phone, so he could make sure it was working properly. After being handed the phone and checking it, the suspect allegedly fled on foot with the iPhone, according to reports.
The victim then reported the theft to police, and, after an investigation by Detective Brady Shelcusky, the suspect was identified and charged with the theft. The phone was recovered, according to the statement.
The South Brunswick Police Department has a Safe Exchange Zone set up in front of headquarters, located at 540 Ridge Road, Monmouth Junction section of South Brunswick. This area is available for use by anyone buying or selling items through an online site or app.
Some additional safety suggestions offered by South Brunswick police include:
- Be careful if you receive messages from someone who is not local to your area, especially if they claim to be overseas.
- If not using the Safe Exchange Zone, plan to meet in a busy, public place, like a cafe or bank lobby, and meet during the day.
- Bring a friend with you, especially if the item you’ve arranged to purchase or sell is high in value.
- Only accept cash.
- Trust your gut if anything raises a red flag, such as if someone insists you come alone, changes the meeting place at the last minute, or refuses to meet in a public space.