Web Desk
A Houston man is facing serious charges after allegedly running a Facebook Marketplace scheme that involved stealing and reselling nearly half a million dollars’ worth of backup power generators.
James Eric Barnes, 46, is accused of using stolen credit cards to buy generators from over 30 Texas businesses in cities including Austin, Beaumont, Brookshire, Dallas, and San Antonio.
Authorities say he then sold the stolen equipment at heavily discounted prices in Harris County.
Barnes reportedly paid between $7,000 and $10,000 per generator, then used Craigslist drivers to transport them to another location before posting them for sale online.
Harris County Precinct 1 Constable Alan Rosen stated that Barnes and his accomplices attempted to steal over $900,000 in generators, though many transactions were halted before shipment.
Investigators found that Barnes sold around two generators per week for a year, resulting in losses of over $470,000 for affected businesses since 2023.
Officials say he also illegally obtained and resold lawnmowers under various aliases, including John Hoover, Michael Martin, and Ronny Martin.
As the investigation continues, authorities expect more arrests. If convicted of the first-degree felony, Barnes could face a life sentence.
