Livonia, Michigan — A 19-year-old Detroit man has been charged after authorities say he stole $1,300 during a Facebook Marketplace transaction that took place in the parking lot of the Livonia Police Department earlier this month.
According to police, the incident occurred on February 18, 2026, when a buyer arranged to purchase cellphones listed for sale online and agreed to meet in front of the police department for safety.
How the Marketplace Meetup Unfolded
Authorities say the victim met the suspect in the front parking lot of the Livonia Police Department to complete the transaction. The buyer exited their vehicle and approached the driver’s side window of the suspect’s car to inspect the phones that had been advertised.
Before physically examining the devices, police report that the victim handed over $1,300 in cash. After receiving the money, the suspect allegedly drove away without providing the cellphones that were supposed to be part of the sale…