Cops: Connecticut man responding to Facebook ad robbed iPhone seller

STRATFORD — An Ansonia man has been charged with stealing an iPhone at gunpoint after responding to an ad for the device on Facebook Marketplace.

Shahiem Donald, 18, was charged with first-degree robbery, third-degree assault and fifth-degree larceny, Stratford police said. He was held on $150,000 bond.

On April 23, Stratford police said officers investigated the robbery of a victim who posted an ad on Facebook Marketplace to sell an iPhone. After the victim arrived at a prearranged location, police said Donald assaulted the person and stole the phone at gunpoint.

Stratford police said they identified Donald as a suspect with the help of a Bridgeport police task force.

“It was later determined Donald and his co-conspirators would contact various victims throughout Fairfield County online to arrange to either buy or sell [iPhones] and other items,” Stratford police said. “Once the suspects met with the victims, Donald and his gang would use force steal cellular phones and other valuables.”