Livonia Police Charge 19-Year-Old Detroit Man After Allegedly Stealing $1,300 in Facebook Marketplace Meetup in Department Parking Lot
Livonia, Michigan — A 19-year-old Detroit man has been charged after authorities say he stole $1,300 during a Facebook Marketplace transaction that took place in the parking lot of the Livonia Police Department earlier this month.
According to police, the incident occurred on February 18, 2026, when a buyer arranged to purchase cellphones listed for sale online and agreed to meet in front of the police department for safety.
How the Marketplace Meetup Unfolded
Authorities say the victim met the suspect in the front parking lot of the Livonia Police Department to complete the transaction. The buyer exited their vehicle and approached the driver’s side window of the suspect’s car to inspect the phones that had been advertised.
Before physically examining the devices, police report that the victim handed over $1,300 in cash. After receiving the money, the suspect allegedly drove away without providing the cellphones that were supposed to be part of the sale.
The incident occurred in what is commonly used as a designated safe exchange location, an area intended to help reduce fraud and theft during online marketplace transactions.
Suspect Identified and Taken Into Custody
Investigators later identified the suspect as 19-year-old Demerious Whiteside of Detroit. Following the investigation, Whiteside was taken into custody by Livonia police on the evening of February 26, 2026.
He has been formally charged with larceny in connection with the alleged theft.
Police have not released additional details regarding how investigators identified the suspect, but officials confirmed the arrest followed the reported incident at the police department parking lot.
Court Appearance and Bond Details
Whiteside was arraigned on February 27, 2026, in Livonia’s 16th District Court. A judge set bond at $15,000 (10%), meaning a portion of that amount must be posted for release.
His next scheduled court appearance is set for April 6, 2026.
Reminder About Safe Exchange Locations
Police departments across Michigan and the country often promote their parking lots as safe exchange zones for online marketplace transactions. While these areas are monitored and intended to deter crime, authorities continue to remind residents to take precautions — including verifying merchandise before handing over payment.
Officials emphasize that even in designated safe zones, buyers and sellers should remain cautious, especially when handling large amounts of cash.
The case remains pending as it moves through the court system.
For continued updates on regional crime reports and legal developments, visit NapervilleLocal.com for comprehensive coverage.
Author: Harper Langley Category: Crime & Cultural Trends Reporter
Naperville is a community with stories that deserve to be told — both the serious ones about safety and justice, and the lighter ones that capture our culture and daily life. I focus on covering crime reports and court updates while also highlighting the traditions, events, and social trends that shape who we are. Through my reporting, I want to give readers a fuller picture of Naperville — the challenges we face and the character that keeps our city strong.