There’s a new crime trend on the rise – robberies by appointment...

If you’re advertising something to sell in the paper or online – beware of “robbery by appointment.” 

It’s a growing trend on the crime scene and there are a few red flags to look for:

• The buyer seems more focused on a time and place to meet than on the item for sale. 

• The buyer is determined to choose the place to meet.

• The buyer has little or no knowledge about the item for sale.

If you must meet the person to complete the transaction – suggest meeting at the closest police station. If the item can be sold and shipped, do so without revealing any personal information.