Shelton police arrest armed Facebook Marketplace robbery suspects

SHELTON, Conn. (WTNH) — Two people face charges after allegedly robbing a person who was planning to buy sneakers that had been advertised on Facebook Marketplace, according to Shelton police.

Police said the victim called 911 around 9:45 p.m. Thursday to report the robbery. She said she planned to buy Air Jordan sneakers from a man and woman she met on Facebook Marketplace.

According to police, when they showed up at her house, there was a disagreement over the price of the sneakers, and she tried to get her money back, but the man pointed a gun at her, and the alleged sellers drove off.

The victim told police about a paper license plate on the back of the SUV they showed up in. Police said an officer saw a vehicle matching the description heading south on Bridgeport Avenue and then onto Route 8 North.

Police stopped the SUV and said they found a loaded stolen firearm and items connected to the Facebook Marketplace sale in the vehicle.

Wazim Ali Hariprashad, 19, of Bridgeport, and Caroline Gabriela Ruiz-Robinson, 18, also of Bridgeport, were charged with first-degree robbery and first-degree conspiracy to commit robbery.

Hariprashad was also charged with theft of a firearm and carrying a pistol without a permit. His bond was set at $100,000. He was due in court on Friday.

Ruiz-Robinson posted a $50,000.00 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Set. 16.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.