Suspect used Craigslist to rob potential buyers

A Tampa man was arrested after placing ads on Craigslist to sell a mobile phone, but robbing potential buyers instead. 

The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office said a victim contacted law enforcement after responding to a Craigslist ad for a cell phone being sold for $60. The victim met the supposed seller, 18-year-old Javario Funches, at 4309 Mariners Cove Ct. on February 16, and exchanged money for the phone. 

The victim told officers, once the exchange happened, Funches pulled out a gun and took the phone back, then fled. 

On February 17, the same ad appeared on Craigslist, so officers formed a tactical operation with the District Two Investigation Unit, then made arrangements with Funches to meet and purchase the phone. 

When they arrived the meeting location at 4138 Sable Park Drive, Funches, who was carrying a gun, was arrested. 

He faces a charge of robbery.