Des Moines: Second Arrest Made After Officer Struck During Theft Investigation

Des Moines police have made a second arrest in connection with an incident on February 5 that left one officer with minor injuries and prompted another officer to discharge their firearm. The incident stemmed from an investigation into cell phone thefts occurring during transactions arranged through Facebook Marketplace.

The initial incident unfolded around 4:00 PM near the intersection of 20th Street and College Avenue. Officers were attempting to arrest Reginald Soward, 18, in relation to the ongoing investigation into these marketplace thefts. According to police reports, Soward and others fled the scene in a vehicle, subsequently striking one officer and narrowly missing another. The second officer then fired a handgun, though no one was injured by the gunfire.

The investigation revealed a pattern of fraudulent sales arrangements on Facebook Marketplace, where individuals were targeted for cell phone thefts. Detectives discovered evidence suggesting Soward’s involvement in multiple such incidents. The initial response involved a pursuit that led through an alley in the 1600 block of 11th Street, where the officer was struck. The vehicle continued to a location near 2nd and Franklin Avenue before coming to a stop.

A 17-year-old male, identified as the driver of the vehicle, was initially taken into custody and faces multiple charges in juvenile court, including two counts of assault with a weapon, eluding law enforcement, theft (3rd degree), and possession of marijuana. The other individuals involved in the initial escape remained at large until Soward’s arrest on February 18.

Detectives executed a search warrant at Soward’s residence, leading to his arrest without incident. He now faces a series of charges, including theft, interference with official acts, and various drug-related offenses. The specific nature of the drug-related crimes has not been detailed.

The Des Moines Police Department’s Crimes Against Property Sections were instrumental in both the initial investigation and the subsequent apprehension of Soward. The department’s focus on these Facebook Marketplace-related thefts highlights a growing trend of criminals exploiting online platforms for illicit activities. This case underscores the risks associated with meeting strangers for in-person transactions, particularly when dealing with high-value items like cell phones.

The incident raises questions about the security protocols on platforms like Facebook Marketplace and the potential for increased law enforcement scrutiny of these types of transactions. While Facebook Marketplace offers a convenient way for individuals to buy and sell goods, it also presents opportunities for criminal activity. Users are advised to exercise caution when arranging meetings with unknown individuals and to consider conducting transactions in public places with adequate security measures.

The fact that an officer was injured during the apprehension of suspects highlights the inherent dangers faced by law enforcement personnel during routine investigations. The decision by the second officer to discharge their firearm, while not resulting in any injuries, underscores the volatile nature of these encounters and the split-second decisions officers must make in the line of duty. The department has not released details regarding the officer’s training or the specific circumstances that led to the discharge of the weapon.

The ongoing investigation may reveal further details about the extent of the cell phone theft operation and the involvement of other individuals. Law enforcement officials are likely to continue monitoring online marketplaces for similar criminal activity and working to educate the public about the risks involved in these types of transactions. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and caution when engaging in online commerce.