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Police: Social Media Transactions Result In Armed Robberies

Posted at 5:03 PM, Oct 17, 2018
and last updated 2018-10-17 17:05:52-04

LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) – Three juveniles and one adult male have been arrested following two robberies in which the victims had responded to ads on Facebook Marketplace.

In the afternoon hours of Oct. 5, officers were contacted on two separate occasions in reference to armed robberies occurring in the downtown area.

In both incidents, the victims had responded to Facebook Marketplace announcements advertising a mobile device for sale. Upon meeting the suspects in the designated locations, the victims were deprived of property by armed suspects. During one incident, the victim was forced to accompany the suspects to a local ATM to procure money which was later taken.

No one was injured.

Investigators set up an operation which resulted in the identification and arrest of the involved suspects.

These individuals included three male juvenile teenagers and one adult male, identified as Deaijamar I. Hawkins, 24.

Hawkins has been charged with three counts of First-Degree Robbery, Kidnapping, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Transaction with a Minor and Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon.

Lexington police want to remind citizens to be vigilant when engaging in face to face commerce with unknown individuals. When arranging a transaction, attempt to meet during daylight hours or in the early evening, in a public location. Caution should be used when a party suggests meeting late at night or in a secluded area. If anything seems suspicious, discontinue the transaction.