Armed Robbery in Annandale Linked to Fake Craigslist Ads

Fairfax County Police are investigating a series of armed robberies involving iPhones advertised for sale on the classifieds website Craigslist.

A buyer who responded to one of the ads that read “Jailbroken iPhones for Sale” was robbed at gunpoint in Annandale on Friday, June 17 around 11 p.m. in the parking lot of a restaurant at Little River Turnpike and Oasis Drive. When the buyer arrived, the seller pulled out a gun, took the victim's money and fled the scene.

The victim's identification of a vehicle license plate led police to arrest two suspects.

Deshawn Derr, 25, of Alexandria and David Ramsey, 39, of no fixed address were both charged with robbery and use of firearm in commission of a felony.

Police believe there have been close to a dozen similar robberies over the past three months in Fairfax and other areas. A navy blue, newer BMW model 7 series with North Carolina tags may be connected to the robberies.

Lucy Caldwell, public information officer with the Fairfax County Police Department, would not comment on whether Derr and Ramsey had accomplices in the robbery or if they are connected to similar incidents where police have noticed trends in the wording of ads on Craigslist. However, Caldwell said further investigation by a specialized investigative unit in the Mason District Station suggests there are more victims. All victims should contact Detective John Vickery at 703-246-7800.

"When you’re dealing with a stranger on Craigslist or in any situation, use caution,” Caldwell said. Police also encourage people who buy or sell online to meet during daylight hours and bring a friend.

Anyone with information about this crime is asked to contact Crime Solvers by phone at 1-866-411-TIPS/8477, e-mail at www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org or text “TIP187” plus your message to CRIMES/274637 or call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131.