Suspects arrested for string of robberies on Irving Ave. N.
MINNEAPOLIS (KMSP) - Minneapolis police say they have arrested two juveniles in connection with a series of armed robberies in September where the victims were all lured to the same block of Irving Avenue North under the impression they were delivering food to a customer or meeting someone to sell an item posted for sale online.
Four armed robberies took place on the 3200 block of Irving Avenue N. between Sept. 12 and Sept. 21. In each incident, the suspects had asked the victims to meet them at the location by placing a delivery order from a local restaurant or responding to an advertisement for an item for sale on an online marketplace such as OfferUp.com or LetGo.com. All the victims were threatened with a handgun before being robbed.
Upon executing a search warrant at a house on James Avenue North, Minneapolis police arrested the two juveniles and recovered evidence linking them to the robberies.
MPD safety tips for buying and selling items on a social media platform
Arrange to meet in a public location of your choosing. This might be a restaurant, coffee shop, municipal building, library, or any location that is public and that you are familiar with. Whenever possible avoid going to a buyer’s or seller’s home, or inviting them to your home.
Buddy up! Take a friend with you to meet with the buyer or seller. Most robbers prefer their victims to be alone.
Trust your instincts. If a situation doesn’t feel right, get out! Many robbery victims report getting an uneasy feeling about a situation just before they’re robbed.
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t let your judgement be clouded by an incredibly good deal on something.
Only carry the minimum amount of cash necessary. Leave your jewelry and other valuables at home.