Fresno Police say the man who is the victim in this case began exchanging messages with a woman on Redbook, an internet site claiming to be a premier guide to escort, massage and strip club services.
The two would later meet at the Popeyes restaurant at First and McKinley. Then Monday afternoon, he was invited to her home around the corner on Normal Ave.
“He brought lunch. They go in and she offers him a drink and he gets a shot of vodka,” said Sgt. Tim Tietjen.
Police say the victim didn't feel right after taking the shot of vodka, so he fled out the front door and went out to the street to try and get to his car, that's when two teenagers attacked him with handguns.
“They took him to the ground. Took all of his belongings and pistol whipped him with the weapons and got into his vehicle and took off,” said Sgt. Tietjen.
The man called police to report his stolen car. About 45 minutes later, detectives spotted it not far from where it was taken.
“We followed it and two black males matching the description of those involved in the carjacking got out and fled from police. They were caught and placed in custody,” said Sgt. Tietjen.
Investigators say the suspects are 16 and 17 year old gang members who have a history of auto theft.
It's cases like this one why Fresno police discourage everyone from using Redbook. Officers say it can't be trusted due to its connection with criminal activity.
“This individual could have been seriously injured and not just had his property taken. We're grateful he's safe, but he was badly beaten up and bruised,” said Sgt. Tietjen.
Police are looking for three more people tied to this case, two men and the woman who reeled the victim in.