Atlanta, Georgia – A planned social media marketplace transaction escalated into a violent confrontation and arrest last week, according to the Atlanta Police Department.
Incident overview
On December 17, officers arrested Jacon Beasley after he allegedly stole an iPhone 14 Pro Max during a meetup arranged through Facebook Marketplace. The exchange took place at a Chevron gas station located at 1917 Pryor Rd SW, where police say the situation quickly turned physical.
What police say happened
According to investigators, the victim had agreed to meet Beasley at the gas station to sell the phone. During the exchange, Beasley allegedly snatched the device and attempted to flee the scene in a Ford F-150.
As the suspect tried to escape, the victim reportedly grabbed onto the vehicle in an attempt to stop him. Police say the victim was then thrown to the ground, suffering injuries in the process.
Emergency medical services responded to the scene and treated the victim on site. No transport to a hospital was reported.
Witness intervention stops escape
Police say a witness nearby intervened as Beasley attempted to flee, ultimately preventing him from leaving the area. During the attempted escape, Beasley reportedly crashed the Ford F-150 into a gas pump, causing damage to the property.
The witness held Beasley at the scene until officers arrived and took him into custody.
Arrest and charges
Beasley was arrested at the scene and later transported to the Fulton County Jail. Atlanta police said he is facing multiple charges, including:
- Aggravated assault
- Theft by taking
- Criminal damage to property
Authorities have not released details on a court appearance or bond status as of the latest update.
Police warning about online marketplace transactions
Following the incident, the Atlanta Police Department urged residents to take extra precautions when buying or selling items through online platforms such as Facebook Marketplace.
Police recommend:
- Meeting only in public, well-lit locations
- Bringing another person when possible
- Avoiding displaying high-value items before payment is confirmed
- Using designated police exchange zones, which are monitored and designed to reduce the risk of theft or violence
Ongoing investigation
The case remains under investigation, and police have not indicated whether additional charges could be filed. Anyone with further information related to the incident is encouraged to contact Atlanta police.
Incidents like this highlight the risks associated with peer-to-peer online sales and the importance of prioritizing safety over convenience. Share your experiences in the comments below.
