MORRISVILLE, N.C. (WNCN) — The ability of social media proved to be an efficient device after touchdown three males behind bars this week.

Because it seems, this scary ordeal began with social media.

“That’s a traumatic incident for anyone.  A lot much less anyone that’s 16 years-old,” described Police Chief Pete Acosta.

Wednesday morning, police say a 16-year-old, who was promoting an iPhone by Fb Market, met with the assumed consumers in his neighborhood.

“They got here to purchase the telephone with not superb intentions utilizing some counterfeit foreign money,” Acosta said.

Acosta stated when the teenager spoke up, they pulled out a gun, took his telephone, and left. 

Thankfully, he was not damage. 

A number of hours after the crime was reported to police, investigators got here throughout an enormous lead on Fb Market.

“It didn’t take our investigators lengthy to get some potential suspects making an attempt to promote some telephones on-line.  So, we have been capable of put some undercovers on that and we really invited them to return promote it again to us within the police division car parking zone they usually got here,” Acosta stated.

Michael Purcell, Emmanuel Purcell, and Jaylin Beal have been arrested.  Officers stated they not solely discovered the stolen telephone, however two stolen weapons, and a stolen MacBook.

Acosta stated individuals ought to concentrate on the place they purchase or promote objects from on-line.

“One, it’s vital to not be by your self while you do these sorts of transactions initially.  It’s a good suggestion to not use your property as a gathering place whether or not it's you promoting or shopping for.  It’s all the time safer to be in a central place and perhaps even in public,” he stated.

Police, like loads of companies in our space, have secure zones within the car parking zone the place you should buy and promote objects.

The three males arrested face a listing of fees, together with armed theft, possession of a stolen firearm, and possession of a counterfeit instrument.