Crime

Online sale leads to frightening robbery

Jun 25, 2024 | 10:23 AM

PRINCE GEORGE — The Prince George RCMP is urging caution with online marketplace sales following a robbery last Friday night (June 21).

Cpl. Jennifer Cooper says it happened at around 8 p.m. when the seller met the purchaser at the agreed-upon place, pulled a knife, took the high-priced item, and took off in a pickup truck.

“The seller was able to get a description of the vehicle and its last know direction of travel, which enabled police officers to catch up with the suspect vehicle quickly. The merchandise was located inside the vehicle and returned to the seller. Thankfully, no one was injured in this incident.”

The suspect, identified as 28-year-old Cody Lee Sullivan, was arrested and held in custody until he could attend a bail hearing. He was subsequently returned to the community on a release order with a future court date.

One charge of robbery has been approved in this investigation. Sullivan is known to police.

If you are nervous about conducting online marketplace transactions and want to know how to keep yourself safe, here are a few safety tips:

  • Meet in a public place, if possible, and near where other people are around. Inside of local coffee shops and grocery stores are some suggestions.
  • If you are meeting in a public place, take a second person with you, such as a family member or a friend.
  • If the other person is coming to your house, make sure you are not alone and try to have the item(s) already outside, so they do not have to come into your house.
  • Rely on contactless pickup when possible, using secure electronic money transfers for payment.
  • Follow your instincts: if something seems to good to be true, it likely is. If something about the transaction is making you question how legitimate it is, it’s best to pass on the deal and maintain your safety.