Holliston PD's 'Operation Safe Lot' Aims To Prevent Ripoffs During Online Deals

HOLLISTON, MA – The Holliston Police Department unveiled its newest crime prevention strategy, "Operation Safe Lot," this week. To keep residents safe when exchanging goods during online transactions, the police department is offering its public parking lot as a safe location for exchanges.

Craigslist deals and other online transactions run the risk of turning into robberies or violent encounters, as one side is sometimes robbed during the exchange. The Metro West region has experienced this problem firsthand.

The parking lot at 550 Washington Street is well-lit and under 24/7 video surveillance. The front desk is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week and provides a safe option for arranging a location to conduct a person to person tradeoff, the police department said.

Any questions, comments or concerns may be directed to Sgt. Ken Belson, crime prevention safety officer, at 508-429-1212.

Holliston police have also provided the following safety tips when arranging a transaction online:

1. Insist to meet at a public place such as the Holliston Police Department.
2. Don't go alone.
3. Trust your instincts.
4. Do not meet in a secluded area.
5. Do not invite strangers into your home, and do not go to theirs.
6. Be cautious when buying/selling high value items.
7. Perform the transaction during daylight hours.
8. If it sounds too good to be true, it normally is.
9. Tell a friend or family member about your intentions.
10. Take your cell phone with you.

Image via HPD