18-year-old accused of grand theft following Facebook Marketplace transaction

CAPE CORAL, Fla. (WINK) — A Facebook Marketplace sale nearly went wrong in Cape Coral, but quick action from the victim stopped a suspected thief in his tracks.

Cape Coral police said the victim was selling gold jewelry on the site and arranged to meet 18-year-old Jayden Everett at their home Friday night, just before 8 p.m. The transaction was set to take place in the garage.

According to investigators, Everett pulled out a scale to weigh the jewelry, then pocketed it and tried to run. The victim chased and detained him until officers arrived.

The Cape Coral Police Department arrested Everett on a charge of Grand Theft (Property Value $10,000–$20,000).

Police remind residents to use caution when meeting strangers for online transactions.

Whenever possible, meet in a well-lit, public place or at a designated safe exchange zone, bring someone with you, and trust your instincts if something feels off.