Boston police arrest man in connection with catfishing robbery scheme
Boston police arrested a man on Friday in connection with a string of “catfishing’’ robberies in Mattapan and Roxbury earlier this month, according to a statement from the department.
Victims in several robberies reported arriving at a specific residence after agreeing to meet someone they’d been in contact with online. Once outside the location, a man approached and robbed them at gunpoint.
Police say Rakeem Austin, 30, of Dorchester was involved in eight armed robberies that lured victims by using an online dating service. Officers said they discovered evidence of the crimes when executing a search warrant of Austin’s home.
Austin is facing charges including armed robbery and assault by means of a dangerous weapon.
He will be arraigned Monday in Dorchester District Court. No infomation on Austin’s attorney was immediately available.
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