Houston Police Needs Help in Capturing Two Suspects in Facebook Marketplace Robbery Scheme

The Houston Police Department’s Robbery Division is asking for the public’s assistance in locating two suspects, Arlando Lyles, 17, and Christian Ray Pickett, 18, who are wanted in connection with a series of robberies involving fake Facebook Marketplace listings. Lyles faces charges of aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon and theft from person, while Pickett is wanted for theft from person (robbery). Additional charges are pending.

Since September 2024, the suspects have used Facebook Marketplace to post items for sale, such as PlayStation consoles and shoes, targeting unsuspecting buyers. Once the victims arrive at the designated location, usually apartment complex parking lots in Southeast Houston, the suspects rob them at gunpoint, taking their money and belongings.

The robberies have occurred at the following locations:

1. September 21, 2024, at 2400 S. Loop W.
2. September 29, 2024, at 2700 Woodland Park Dr.
3. October 7, 2024, at 5900 Selinsky.
4. October 21, 2024, at 7900 Rockhill.
5. October 26, 2024, at 3700 Faulkner.
6. November 2, 2024, at 10100 Cullen.
7. November 8, 2024, at 10000 Cullen.
8. November 15, 2024, at 5900 Selinsky.
9. November 16, 2024, at 10000 Cullen.
10. November 17, 2024, at 7100 Scott.
11. November 18, 2024, at 10000 Cullen.
12. November 18, 2024, at 5900 Selinsky.
13. November 21, 2024, at 10000 Cullen.
14. November 22, 2024, at 7900 Rockhill.
15. November 24, 2024, at 10000 Cullen.

Lyles and Pickett are among the suspects believed to have been involved in at least some of these incidents, which have escalated from assaults to armed robberies. Investigators believe there may be other suspects actively operating fake profiles to target additional victims.

Authorities are encouraging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers of Houston directly at 713-222-TIPS (8477), or by submitting an online tip at www.crime-stoppers.org or through the Crime Stoppers mobile app. Tips leading to the arrest or charging of any suspect may result in a cash reward of up to $5,000. All tipsters can remain anonymous.