Police In South Jersey Set Up "Safe Zones" For Craigslist Transactions
CHERRY HILL, NJ (CBS) – The Cherry Hill Police Department says it has established a series of safe zones where residents can complete Craigslist purchases.
Police say the safe zones are meant to increase the safety of online transactions by offering a highly visible location to complete the purchases.
The zones are open all day, every day.
The two locations are marked with bright yellow "Safe Transaction Signs," police say. Both locations are around the Township Municipal Building on 820 Mercer Street.
Authorities say the first safe zone is in the Police Headquarters lobby, which is accessible 24/7 from the front entrance on Mercer Street.
The second safe zone is located in the "horseshoe" of parking spots in the back lot at Town Hall, which is also continuously monitored by surveillance cameras.
"Online forums have become a popular means to buy and sell items," Chief Monaghan says. "However, interactions of this nature are also prime targets for robbery, thefts and scams. We encourage residents to use caution when conducting online sales, always meet in a public location, and remember: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is."
Police say though the sites are accessible 24/7, officers will not participate in or witness the transactions. They also do not guarantee the authenticity or quality of the items purchased.
Residents with questions or concerns can contact Community Relations Officer Houlihan at (856) 488-7813 or via e-mail at rhoulihan@cherryhillpolice.com.
