Ten teenagers, aged 14 to 17, charged in rash of online marketplace cellphone thefts in Ajax
Published February 22, 2023 at 3:58 pm
A rash of cell phone thefts set up as sales on online marketplaces has resulted in the arrest of 10 teenagers between the ages of 14 and 17.
Durham Regional Police said they launched an investigation in January after the West Division, which patrols Ajax, received several reports items posted for sale online were being stolen.
The seller would post their cell phone for sale on online ads. A group of teenagers would respond to these ads and set up a meeting to buy the phones.
However, once the sellers met the “buyer,” a teenager would allegedly grab the phone and run away.
Ultimately, police arrested the ten teenagers over the course of their month-long investigation. The teen range in age from 14 to 17. Beyond that their identities are protected by the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
All together the kids face 25 charges including; theft under $5,000, robbery and fraud under $5,000. All ten have been released with conditions.
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Meanwhile, the cops have take this opportunity to “remind the public to take extra precautions when selling or purchasing items online. Take extra steps to ensure a profile is legitimate, don’t go alone and meet in busy public spaces.”
They also recommend meeting during daylight or in a well-lit area, keeping personal details private, bringing only enough cash for the purchase if buying and asking for a demonstration to make sure the item works.
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