Man uses Facebook Marketplace to track custom truck stolen from his driveway
By Brian Hamrick
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CINCINNATI, Ohio (WLWT) — Blake Hensley, whose custom-built 2023 Ford Raptor was stolen from his driveway, tracked down the thieves through Facebook Marketplace, leading to the recovery of his vehicle.
“This is a 2023 Ford Raptor. It’s got the special 37 inch package,” Hensley said. “I did a custom build on the truck, the custom wheels. The custom tires.”
Hensley woke up to find his truck missing, and security footage showed the thieves driving away with it. Believing he knew where the thieves might try to sell the stolen parts, Hensley turned to Facebook Marketplace, a popular platform for buying and selling items.
“Facebook Marketplace has become the leading source to buy and sell any items,” Hensley said.
After searching through numerous pages, Hensley was surprised to find his custom wheels, identifiable by a specific serial number, listed for sale. He contacted the seller, posing as an interested buyer, and arranged a meeting. Working closely with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Hensley set up a sting operation that led to the recovery of his truck.
“I set up a sting operation, working very closely with Montgomery County Sheriff. They intercepted the deal and caught the suspect with my wheels, which led to the recovery of the truck,” Hensley said.
This was not the first time Hensley faced theft; in 2024, thieves stole keys from cars at his business, Upscale Auto Sales. Despite the ordeal, Hensley is relieved to have his Ford back, although he now faces costs for repairs, towing, storage, and impound fees. Investigators are still working on the case, but no arrests have been made yet.
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