MOUNTAINSIDE, NJ — Felix Marte, a 23-year-old from Bayonne, is facing charges after allegedly attempting to purchase a computer with paper napkins instead of cash during a Facebook Marketplace transaction.
According to Mountainside Police, the two parties agreed to meet on August 13 in a business parking lot along Route 22. During the meeting, Marte reportedly handed the victim an envelope containing napkins and then forcibly dragged the victim, resulting in injuries.
Following the incident, Marte was arrested on charges of robbery and theft.
In light of this unusual case, the Mountainside Police Department has issued reminders for residents to prioritize safety during online marketplace transactions, encouraging them to meet in well-lit, public locations and to be cautious when accepting unconventional payment methods.