From The Tribune staff reports
BIRMINGHAM — The Birmingham Police Department is warning citizens after noticing a spike in robberies connected to social media websites.
Over the past two months, police have responded to several victims who said they were under the impression they were meeting another person to “hang out.” Once they arrived at the meetup location, the victims were robbed at gunpoint and forced to send money through CashApp or PayPal. In some cases, vehicles have been stolen.
“BPD wants to encourage the community to pick safe, public areas if they plan to physically meet someone who they have only previously met online,” said BPD in a statement. “Most of the victims have been embarrassed to tell detectives the truth about what happened to them.”
If you have any information, you are asked to call the BPD Robbery Division at (205) 254-1753. You can also call Crime Stoppers of Metro Alabama at (205) 254-7777. You will remain anonymous and could be eligible for a cash reward.
