PEORIA, Ill. — Tobais Taylor, 25, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison after pleading guilty to aggravated robbery in a case linked to a Facebook Marketplace exchange in North Peoria.
According to the Peoria County State’s Attorney’s Office, the sentence was handed down on December 22.
The case centers on an Oct. 26,2024 incident at the Knollridge Apartment Complex. Police were told the victim arranged to sell several pairs of shoes listed on Facebook Marketplace.
Arriving at the meeting,the victim was approached by two men. One man told him to hand over the shoes or his accomplice would shoot him. The victim surrendered four pairs of footwear before the suspects fled the scene.
The other involved, Jordan Johnson, has a case that remains pending.
| Name | Age | Charge | Sentence | Incident Date | Location | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tobais Taylor | 25 | Aggravated Robbery | 12 years | Oct. 26, 2024 | Knollridge Apartment complex, North Peoria | Convicted; Sentenced (Dec.22) |
| Jordan Johnson | N/A | Case Pending | N/A | oct. 26, 2024 | Knollridge Apartment Complex, North Peoria | Pending |
Evergreen insights: Safeguarding online marketplace transactions
As online marketplaces continue to connect buyers and sellers, this case underscores the importance of safety when meeting in person for transactions.
Always verify the identity of the other party, meet in a well‑lit, public area, and consider bringing a friend to the meeting. Avoid sharing sensitive information and use traceable payment methods whenever possible.
Before completing a deal, review the item you’re purchasing, confirm the seller’s credibility, and document the exchange with a clear paper trail. If something feels off, trust your instincts and walk away.
For additional guidance on staying safe online, consult official resources from law enforcement and consumer protection agencies:
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.
Reader engagement questions: What precautions do you take when meeting a buyer or seller for online transactions? Have you or someone you know ever faced a threatening situation during an in-person exchange? Share your experiences in the comments.
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