Update – Caledon OPP has released the photo of a suspect wanted in connection with the incident.
Provincial Police in Caledon are investigating a theft during a Facebook Marketplace transaction and offering advice on how to buy something online safely.
On Jan. 20 just before 4 p.m., officers responded to a report of a theft outside of Tony Pontes Public School on Kennedy Road. After agreeing to purchase an iPad, the seller and potential buyer met at the school. Police say the suspect shoved the victim and fled on foot with the item with no money changing hands. The victim was not injured.
The suspect is described as a 16 or 17-year-old male of Hispanic, Spanish or Mediterranean descent. He has curly hair on top with short hair on the sides along with a thin moustache. Police add he is about 5 foot 9, 120 pounds and was wearing a black jacket, black or grey hoodie, and red pants with a white stripe.
Caledon OPP spokesperson Constable Joe Brisebois said now is a good time to remind people about Project Safe Trade, a program that launched in 2023.
“The area is located in front of the Caledon OPP detachment at 15924 Innis Lake Road in Caledon East. Online classified and auction sites are often used as tools to sell stolen property to unknowing victims and can present a safety threat.”
He said using the detachment parking lot is a sure way to increase public safety and reduce crime.
“Creating a community safe zone in police detachment parking lots is about moving online marketplace transactions away from secluded parking lots or private residences and bringing them into public places,” explained Brisebois.
He added when meeting a stranger to perform a transaction be sure to bring your cell phone, bring a friend or family member as a witness and if you do go alone be sure to tell someone where and when you are going.
