Hamilton Township police have charged six males for allegedly using online car sale posts to lure victims who were then robbed at gunpoint.
Hamid Webb, Stephen Powell and Develin Grant, all of Mays Landing, along with three underage teens were allegedly involved. All but 18-year-old Grant are in custody.
The group allegedly used Facebook Marketplace to advertise two Nissan Altimas. One is listed in Mays Landing and the other Atlantic City, according to the report.
The group is charged with first-degree robbery, aggravated assault by pointing a firearm, simple assault, weapons offenses and use of a minor to commit a criminal offense.
Police remind residents that there is a "Safe Exchange Zone" in the municipal lot behind their main building at 6161 13th St.
They also offer the following tips for buying or selling anything through social media:
1. Meet in a well-lit area.
2. Never go to a meeting alone.
3. Share the meeting plan with friends or relatives before you go.
4. Never meet at your home.
5. Consider using a secure person-to-person payment method instead of paying cash.
6. If you’re considering purchasing a vehicle, ask for the vehicle identification information and run a CarFax report before exchanging money.
Anyone with information about Grant's whereabouts is asked to call police at 609-625-2700.
