Sting leads to arrests in LetGo, OfferUp apps scam, sheriff says

Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott reported two suspects accused of stealing cell phones through social media apps were arrested.

The suspects reportedly used the LetGo and OfferUp apps, which are used to sell personal property, according to a news release from the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.

The release stated Johnny Alston would apply for jobs at local restaurants, receive work uniforms and then never show up for work.

Deputies believe Alston met victims selling phones in the parking lots of these restaurants while wearing a uniform. The release said the suspect would have a victim’s cell phone then go inside the restaurant and flee through another exit.

Deputies believe Alston and Scott would try to sell the stolen phones on Craigslist for $300.

Deputies set up a sting last week, where Alston was reportedly found in a uniform meeting with a seller.

Deputies arrested Alston that day and later arrested Scott.

Alston, 21, was charged with four counts of larceny and one count of conspiracy to commit a crime.

Scott, 22, was charged with two counts of conspiracy to commit a crime.

Deputies encouraged any potential buyers and sellers to use the department’s “Safe Exchange” locations at its region headquarters.

Anyone who believes they or someone they know has been a victim of a similar scam can contact Crimestoppers at (888) CRIME-SC, text “TIPSC” plus the message to CRIMES (274637) or visit www.midlandscrimestoppers.com. Anyone with information leading to an arrest in this case could receive up to a $1,000 reward.

This story was originally published June 15, 2017 at 11:29 AM with the headline "Sting leads to arrests in LetGo, OfferUp apps scam, sheriff says."