Man linked to Craigslist-related crimes

Man linked to Craigslist-related crimes

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Story Published: Mar 17, 2008 at 8:28 PM PDT

Story Updated: Mar 17, 2008 at 8:28 PM PDT

By Anna Song and KATU Web Staff

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PORTLAND, Ore. - Investigators believe Matthew Wood targets people in the personal ads section of Craigslist, gains their trust and then steals them blind.

In a December 2006 case, police claim he used the site to meet someone at a bar. They ended up going back to the person's house, where Wood is accused of then stealing $4,000 to $5,000 worth of stuff and running out the door with it when the resident was out of sight.

Police said he stole a camera bag full of digital camera lenses, a computer, a flash device, DVDs and a jacket.

As the ultimate insult, detectives said Wood also stole the victim's cell phone and used it to call a cab to come pick him up after the theft.

Given what little information Wood offered on Craigslist, detectives would have had a tough time identifying him had it not been for a precautionary measure the victim took during their encounter.    

While they were at the bar, the victim saw Wood's identification and memorized his name.

Detectives said Wood may be hanging around Southeast 39th and Powell in Portland, where his relatives live.

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