An alleged serial Facebook Marketplace thief has been arrested in Springfield Central after leading Ipswich police on a dramatic foot chase.
Nicholas Joseph Davis, 37, was intercepted by police officers outside a Bunnings in Springfield Central about 11:40am on Monday, ending what authorities claim was a pattern of vehicle thefts across the region.
Officers from the Ipswich district discovered an allegedly stolen white Toyota Hiace van in a Springfield Central carpark and waited for the suspect to return. When Davis noticed police, he allegedly attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended following a chase across busy roads.
The arrest follows two separate incidents where Davis allegedly stole vehicles from Facebook Marketplace sellers. In the most recent case, police allege Davis stole a 2019 Toyota Hiace valued at $28,000 from Slacks Creek on March 30 after arranging to test drive the vehicle.
Two weeks prior, Davis allegedly used the same tactic to steal a 2012 Piaggio Zip 50 scooter valued at $3,000 from an Ipswich resident, Kaz Miyazaki. After taking the scooter for a “test ride,” Davis never returned, later texting the seller with claims of an injury and promises of payment that never materialised.
During Monday’s arrest in Springfield Central, police allegedly discovered stolen number plates, war medals, power tools, and a machete inside the van. The vehicle has been taken for forensic examination by Ipswich district police.
Davis faces five counts of enter premises and commit, and two counts each of unlawful use of a motor vehicle and stealing. He is scheduled to appear before Ipswich Magistrates Court on Tuesday.
The case has prompted local police to urge Ipswich residents to take precautions when selling items through online marketplaces, including meeting in public places and verifying buyers’ identities.
Published 1-April-2025