Fake Craigslist Ads End in Armed Robberies

In the market for an iPhone? Don't turn to Craigslist.com. Police are investigating a series of armed robberies involving iPhones advertised on the popular classifieds website.

An interested buyer got a little more than he wanted when he responded to an iPhone ad on Craigslist. He agreed to meet the sellet at a parking lot of a restaurant at Little River Turnpike and Oasis Drive in Annandale last Friday, according to Fairfax County Police. When he got there, the seller pulled out a gun and took his money.

Police believe there have been almost a dozen other similar robberies over the past three months in the Fairfax area. An investigation by police in the Mason District suggest there have been more incidents that haven't been reported.

Two suspects were recently arrested and charged with last Friday's robbery. Deshawn Derr, 25 of Alexandria and David Ramsey, 39, of no fixed address were both charged with robbery and use of firearm in commission of a felony.

They have yet to be charged with other similar iPhone robberies.

Still plan to use classified websites like Craigslist for your shopping? Be smart. Police urge residents to take a friend when making the hand-off and only do so during the day.

Look out for a navy blue newer BMW model 7 series vehicle with North Carolina tags. This vehicle is suspected in some of the robberies.

Did something similar happen to you? Call Detective John Vickery at 703-246-7800.

Anyone who may have information about this crime is asked to contact Crime Solvers by phone at 1-866-411-TIPS/8477, e-mail at www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org or text “TIP187” plus your message to CRIMES/274637 or call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131.