Police have released the image of a known violent offender with a history of property convictions after a man was robbed of his $15,000 diamond engagement ring.

Vancouver Police Department Const. Lindsey Houghton said the ring was advertised on the Craigslist and Kijiji websites late 2011, when the seller was contacted in mid-January.

He said police now have a warrant for the arrest of 30-year-old Michael James Peters of Surrey.

The seller and a man met at a coffee shop in the 500 block Davie Street in January. The seller's attention was distracted and the ring was taken from him.

The seller, who has not been identified, unsuccessfully gave chase and called police.

"After searching through social media and the Internet, the (suspect's) true identity was discovered and a warrant has now been issued for his arrest."

Police ask anyone who recognizes the face in the picture to call 1-800-222-8477.