A San Bernardino County man was arrested for allegedly stealing a car from a seller on Facebook Marketplace.
The victim posted her 2015 Toyota Scion for sale and was contacted by the suspect, Joseph Gomez, 26, of Victorville.
Gomez inquired about the vehicle and planned to meet the woman on May 13 at a residence on the 16000 block of Lariat Road to inspect the car, authorities said.
During the inspection, Gomez stepped into the vehicle and drove away with the car. The victim contacted law enforcement, who began investigating. At 1:42 p.m., deputies spotted the stolen car near Roy Rogers Drive and the 15 Freeway.
“Deputies conducted a high-risk traffic stop and contacted the driver,” the sheriff’s department said.
Gomez was arrested for vehicle theft and the possession of a stolen vehicle. He was booked at the High Desert Detention Center in Adelanto.
“The Victorville Police Department would like to remind the public to be safe when conducting in-person purchases or sales through online marketplaces, authorities said. “Meet in a public place and during daylight hours. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you and make someone aware of your meeting plans.”
No further details were released. Anyone with information about the case can call the Victorville Police Station at 760-241-2911 or Sheriff’s Dispatch at 760-956-5001.
Anonymous tips can be provided to We-Tip at 1-800-782-7463 or online at wetip.com.
