SUFFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — The Suffolk Police Department issued a warning April 3, 2026, advising residents to be cautious when purchasing items online, including sites like Facebook Marketplace, according to officials.
Police received reports of people selling cars and having their cars stolen when they met up with the potential buyer.
Courtesy: Suffolk Police Department
The Suffolk Police Department has tips to offer residents to keep you safe when buying and selling online:
- Get the individuals’ phone number and communicate outside of the online chat.
- Only agree to meet up during daylight hours.
- Meet at safe spaces (i.e. Police Precincts, Fire Stations, and other heavily populated areas)
- Once at the meet up, check the license of the individual you are working with and ensure the name and picture match who they say they are
- If possible, don’t let an individual drive off alone in the vehicle before the sale is final.
Both have designated areas outside for Internet Purchase and Exchange meet ups:
- Suffolk Police Headquarters (111 Henley Place)
- Suffolk Police Precinct 2 (3903 Bridge Road)
If you believe you are a victim of this crime, please get in touch with the Suffolk Police Department at 757-923-2350…