HOUSTON — Police are searching for two teens they say are responsible for at least 15 robberies in the Houston area.
According to investigators, the suspects used fake profiles on Facebook Marketplace to pose as sellers and lure victims to specific locations, where they were then robbed.
Police have identified the suspects as:
- Christian Ray Pickett, 18, wanted for one count of theft from person robbery.
- Arlando Lyles, 17, wanted for aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon and theft from person robbery.
Authorities said the incidents occurred between September 21 and November 24 and were spread across various parts of the Houston area.
In the early cases, the suspects reportedly assaulted victims before stealing their money. However, Houston police warn that the crimes have escalated, with at least one suspect now using a gun during the robberies.
Police urge the public to take precautions when meeting strangers for online transactions.
“Avoid becoming a victim. We strongly suggest you meet and make the transaction at a local police station,” HPD said.
Authorities continue to investigate and encourage anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers.