Sting Operation Nabs 2 Using App To Target Victims

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, Md. (WJZ)—Authorities in Prince George's County have arrested two men in a sting operation after police say they were targeting victims through the Offer Up app.

Back on February 6th, police say two teens were robbed at gun point after they attempted to purchase a dirt bike through the Offer Up app.

On February 16th, multiple agencies launched a sting operation where they attempted to buy another dirt bike from the suspects. Both men, one armed with a handgun, were both apprehended during the meetup on Abel Ave., in Anne Arundel County.

22-year-old Tyrone Strickland Jr. and 36-year-old Andre Speller, both of Capitol Heights, were identified as the suspects and face charges in this incident.

"Criminals are misusing the popular classified ad app, using it to lure victims into potentially dangerous situations," police said. "We are investigating at least seven such cases in our county in recent months."

The Prince George's County Police Department urges anyone who uses any type of classified ad to follow these safety tips:

-Never go alone to the transaction location. Always try to bring a second person with you.

-It's best to talk to potential seller or buyer on the phone. Do not communicate only through an app or online.

-Only meet a potential buyer or seller in a public place - like a shopping center.

-Trust your instincts. If the deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

-Unless the item is too large to bring out of your home, never invite a buyer to your home.