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Tampa, Fla.(NewsRadio WFLA) -You can never be too careful when meeting someone who wants to check out the item you're selling on social media web sites.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office is searching for a man who pretended to buy an iPhone, only to snatch it from the victim and run away.
Just before 2 p.m. on January 4, the victim met with an unknown black male inside the Steak n Shake restaurant at 5917 E Hillsborough Avenue in Tampa to sell his iPhone XS. The victim unlocked the phone and allowed the suspect to hold it for inspection. The suspect ran out of the restaurant, dropping his own cellphone as he bolted.
The victim picked up the phone, however, the suspect returned to retrieve it.
The two struggled over the phone until the suspect was able to get his phone back and flee the scene in a silver 4-door vehicle.
The suspect is believed to be 22-29 years old, approximately 5'6" to 5'9" and
150-160 lbs. He has short black hair with a partial beard, and he was last seen wearing all black clothing and red shoes.
Anyone who recognizes the suspect is asked to call the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office at 813-247-8200. You may also send an anonymous tip from a smart phone using HCSOSheriff app available on both android and apple products. To be eligible for a cash reward, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-873-TIPS (8477).
Photo credit: Hillsborough Sheriff's Office