A Firebaugh teenager was arrested earlier this month after allegedly robbing and illegally pepper spraying his victims, according to the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office.
The sheriff’s office stated that the incident began at approximately 10 a.m. on July 11. At that time, a Facebook Marketplace transaction was scheduled between the suspect and the seller of a laptop.
The seller and two of their relatives arrived at West Ashlan and San Diego Avenues near an orchard in Firebaugh. The suspect, who agreed to meet them there to conduct the transaction, took the laptop and ran away, the sheriff’s office said.
The seller and their two relatives reportedly chased after the suspect on foot. The sheriff’s office said the suspect dropped the laptop and pepper sprayed the people chasing him. He was able to get away.
However, the incident was reported to the sheriff’s office, and deputies were able to identify the suspect as 19-year-old Jared Williams of Firebaugh.
Williams was arrested on suspicion of robbery and illegal use of pepper spray. He was booked into Fresno County Jail. He is being held in lieu of a $30,000 bail.
The sheriff’s office is advising the public to use good judgment when conducting in-person sales.
The sheriff’s office recommends meeting in a well-populated area, not bringing large amounts of cash or valuables (such as jewelry), communicating through social media rather than by phone and trusting your instincts.
