Cops Search for Crooks Who They Say Prey on Craigslist Sellers
Washington state cops looking for suspects who found victims on Craigslist.
April 30, 2010 — -- A manhunt is on for a ring of crooks who Washington state authorities said are responsible for at least two crimes in which their victims were found via Craigslist.
It is "highly probable" that the robbery April 25 in Everett, Wash., and a fatal home invasion in Pierce County April 28 are related, Lake Stevens Police Chief Randy Celori said.
Both cases involved suspects who allegedly drew weapons when the homeowners opened their doors, expecting to sell items they had posted on the online community website Craigslist. The victims in both cases were then tied up while their homes were ransacked. One victim was shot to death.
"These cases have a lot of distinct similarities," Celori said.
Celori said police responded April 25 to the report of a robbery that occurred after two male suspects arrived at a victim's home after he had posted a flat-screen TV for sale on Craigslist.
"We believe the suspects are finding the ads on Craigslist and contacting the sellers and making arrangements to purchase the items," Celori said. "At which time the sellers are providing their home addresses and the suspects show up and pull a gun."
The suspects brandished firearms before tying up the family and then let other members of their team into the home, according to the police report.
They spent 10 minutes stealing electronics, jewelry and cash that amounted to $30,000, Celori said.
Celori said the victims in that robbery should "consider themselves very lucky," considering that a similar home invasion turned deadly.
Craiglist did not immediately respond to inquiries by ABCNews.com.
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