Teenagers Wanted for String of Robberies in Texas Using Fake Marketplace Profiles

HOUSTON, TX - The Houston Police Department is searching for Arlando Lyles, 17, and Christian Ray Pickett, 18, accused of orchestrating a series of armed robberies using fake Facebook Marketplace profiles to lure victims.

Police say the pair is among several suspects involved in robberies targeting buyers responding to ads for items such as PlayStations and shoes. The suspects allegedly post fake listings, direct buyers to meet at apartment complexes or parks in Southeast Houston, and then rob them at gunpoint. Initially, the suspects used physical force during these incidents but have escalated to using firearms. Authorities warn that additional suspects and fake profiles may still be active.

The spree began on September 21, 2024, and spans at least 15 robberies. A detailed timeline released by police highlights incidents across various locations, including multiple robberies at 10,000 Cullen and 5,900 Selinsky apartment complexes. Most crimes occurred in the late afternoon or evening.

List of Robberies

• Sept. 21, 2024, 3:06 p.m.: 2400 S. Loop W (Apartment Complex)
• Sept. 29, 2024, 5:45 p.m.: 2700 Woodland Park Dr (Apartment Complex)
• Oct. 7, 2024, 6:09 p.m.: 5900 Selinsky (Apartment Complex)
• Oct. 21, 2024, 3:22 p.m.: 7900 Rockhill (Park)
• Oct. 26, 2024, 2:02 p.m.: 3700 Faulkner (Apartment Complex Parking Lot)
• Nov. 2, 2024, ~4:30 p.m.: 10100 Cullen (Apartment Complex)
• Nov. 8, 2024, ~5:30 p.m.: 10000 Cullen (Apartment Complex)
• Nov. 15, 2024, 4:37 p.m.: 5900 Selinsky (Apartment Complex)
• Nov. 16, 2024, 6:23 p.m.: 10000 Cullen (Apartment Complex)
• Nov. 17, 2024, 3:56 p.m.: 7100 Scott (Apartment Complex)
• Nov. 18, 2024, 7:35 p.m.: 10000 Cullen (Apartment Complex)
• Nov. 18, 2024, 7:51 p.m.: 5900 Selinsky (Apartment Complex)
• Nov. 21, 2024, 10:29 p.m.: 10000 Cullen (Apartment Complex)
• Nov. 22, 2024, 3:20 p.m.: 7900 Rockhill (Park)
• Nov. 24, 2024, 4:09 p.m.: 10000 Cullen (Apartment Complex)

The suspects remain at large, and Crime Stoppers of Houston is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to their arrest. Tips can be submitted anonymously at 713-222-TIPS (8477) or online at crime-stoppers.org.