Illinois man named “Benjamin Franklin” is accused of stealing lots of Benjamins as part of a Facebook Marketplace scam

An Illinois man who called himself “Benjamin Franklin” was arrested in connection with multiple reports of Facebook Marketplace robberies.

The owner of the “Benjamin Franklin” account was eventually identified as 23-year-old Zyon J. Lay Taylor, whose alleged fraud revolved entirely around the “Benjamins.”

Police say Lay Taylor advertised items for sale on Facebook Marketplace or showed intent to purchase or barter goods, then fled meetings once he had the money or goods in his possession.

According to the Maywood Police Department, the execution of a search warrant recovered numerous items involved in the robberies. On September 5, Lay Taylor surrendered to Maywood police.

Lay Taylor is charged with three counts of theft from persons over $500 but under $10,000.

The investigation is ongoing and Maywood Police are asking potential victims or anyone with knowledge of the related robberies to contact Commander Diaz of the Maywood Police Department at (708) 450-4471.