A terrifying ordeal unfolded in the Bay Area when a woman responding to a Facebook marketplace advertisement found herself the victim of a brutal sexual assault after being lured under false pretences.
The incident occurred on Tuesday evening when the victim arranged to meet someone she believed was a genuine buyer through the popular social media platform. Instead, she was directed to a location where her safety was severely compromised.
The Deceptive Setup
According to police reports, the suspect used the Facebook identity "Devin Budd" to establish contact with the woman. After agreeing on terms for what seemed like a legitimate transaction, the perpetrator provided a specific address for the meeting.
"This appears to be a calculated scheme where the suspect used online platforms to prey on unsuspecting individuals," stated law enforcement officials familiar with the case.
Violent Assault and Escape
Upon arriving at the designated location, the situation quickly turned violent. The woman was subjected to a sexual assault before managing to escape her attacker and alert authorities.
Local police have launched a comprehensive investigation, urging anyone with information about the suspect or similar incidents to come forward immediately.
Growing Concerns About Online Safety
This alarming case has reignited concerns about the safety of online marketplaces and social media transactions. Safety advocates are reminding users to:
- Always meet in public, well-lit areas
- Bring a friend or family member to transactions
- Verify the identity of people you're meeting
- Trust your instincts if something feels wrong
Facebook representatives have confirmed they are cooperating with law enforcement and have policies in place to address such violations of their community standards.
The investigation continues as police work to identify and apprehend the individual responsible for this traumatic attack.
