A Victorville man is accused of stealing a car after responding to a Facebook Marketplace advertisement offering to sell the vehicle and posing as a would-be buyer, authorities said.
The incident unfolded shortly before 1:30 p.m. Monday in a residential neighborhood in the area of Rodeo Drive and Lariat Road, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department officials said.
The victim had posted a listing to sell a 2015 Toyota Scion on the online marketplace, according to a statement from the agency.
Joseph Gomez, 26, of Victorville responded to the ad and inquired about the car, law enforcement officials said. The suspect arranged a meeting in the 16000 block of Lariat Road under the pretense of inspecting the vehicle.
“Gomez entered the vehicle and drove away without consent from the owner,” the statement said.
The victim reported the theft to authorities, and deputies soon spotted the Scion traveling on the 15 Freeway near Roy Rogers Drive. Deputies pulled the driver over and arrested Gomez, according to sheriff’s officials.
He was booked on suspicion of auto theft and possession of a stolen vehicle, county booking records show.
Bail was set at $30,000 pending his initial court appearance.
Sheriff’s officials urged the public to be cautious when conducting with strangers, such as via online marketplaces.
“Meet in a public place and during daylight hours,” the statement recommended. “Avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you, make someone aware of your meeting plans.”
Anyone with information was urged to contact the Victorville Police Department at (760) 241-2911, or Sheriff’s Dispatch at (760) 956-5001. Tips may also be submitted anonymously to the We-Tip hotline at (800) 782-7463.
This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Man accused of stealing car after responding to online advertisement in Victorville
Reporting by Brian Day, Victorville Daily Press / Victorville Daily Press
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