Police: Teens attacked, robbed while meeting potential clothes buyer

Police say two teens were robbed of hundreds of dollars’ worth of merchandise while meeting a potential buyer.

News 12 Staff

Mar 7, 2019, 11:55 PM

Updated 1,875 days ago

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Police: Teens attacked, robbed while meeting potential clothes buyer
Police say two teens were robbed of hundreds of dollars’ worth of merchandise while meeting a potential buyer.
They say a 15-year-old and 16-year-old boy decided to meet the possible buyer on Kent Avenue and South Ninth Street on Jan. 28. The teenagers told police they agreed to meet two men they didn't know, who showed interest in buying clothes posted in an online ad.
Police say that the men, who are believed to be in their late teens or early 20s, punched the victims in the head and body. The suspects then grabbed the clothing, worth $450, and ran off toward Berry Street.
The victims did not want medical attention. Police tell News 12 that the teenagers live nearby where the robbery took place.
The NYPD advises that anyone who decides to buy something from a classified online ad avoid personal meetings for anything involving money or merchandise. They say if you have to meet in person, avoid locations you're unfamiliar with.
The NYPD says to agree with the buyer to meet in a public place such as a police precinct, which has a lot of foot traffic and is well lit. They say to not go along, and tell someone where you're going to and when you'll be back.
Police say if the location doesn't look or feel right, to trust your instincts and leave. If you get there and the buyer suggests a different spot, police say not to go as it could be a trap.
Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS.


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