Hagerstown PD warn of sharp rise in dirt bike thefts from Facebook Marketplace

HAGERSTOWN- Police in the City of Hagerstown are warning of a new type of scam that has seen a sharp rise on the streets of Washington County. HPD say that they have identified a recent pattern of thefts involving the legal sale of dirt bikes via Facebook Marketplace, the social media platform that allows account holders to sell, swap, and trade items without going through another broker. HPD say that the seller and “buyer” agree to meet, with that fake buyer requesting a test ride. After getting on the bike, however, the buyer fails to return the bike and rides off, leaving the legal owner high and dry. If you want to legally sell an item, and specifically a vehicle like a dirt bike, on social media platforms like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, HPD recommend; Select a safe, public, and well-lit area Have another person with you Avoid CASH ONLY transactions when possible Avoid test rides/drives and verify the buyer’s identity prior to handing over the property That could be a search of their social media profile, driver’s license, or other means Document the make, model, and VIN in case you need to file a report Trust your instincts! If
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