Brick Creates Safe Exchange Zone For Internet Sales

BRICK, NJ — With the growing popularity of internet sales — and more crimes that are associated with them — Brick Township officials are offering a place for people to complete their transactions in safety.

The Safe Exchange Zone, which is at the rear of the municipal building near the police department entrance, consists of two clearly marked parking spots that are well-lit and under 24-hour surveillance. The zone is free for anyone to use, but township officials point out that neither police department personnel nor township employees are permitted to serve as witnesses for transactions.

“There has been a sharp increase in people using social media and the internet to sell and buy goods. The Safe Exchange Zone was created to provide anyone who is tentative or concerned about buying or selling goods with a safe place to complete their transactions,” Mayor John G. Ducey said. “We certainly encourage anyone who has concerns to err on the side of caution and safety and use the Safe Exchange Zone.”

Law enforcement authorities around the country urge people who are selling items via the internet to not invite strangers to their homes to complete the sale, and those buying an item that has to be physically transferred are urged to not go to the home of someone they know.

The Brick Township Police Department offers the following tips for anyone planning on using the Safe Exchange Zone:

• Let a friend or family member know about the exchange meeting
• Know who you are dealing with: Look into the seller's background, either through a consumer protection agency such as the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, or through online feedback if you are shopping on a website like Ebay or Amazon. Get a phone number and physical mailing address.
• Try to complete all transactions during daylight hours (if possible)
• Do not agree to a transaction if the other party refuses to complete the exchange in the designated “Safe Exchange Zone”
• Remember to bring a cell phone in case of an emergency.

Photo provided by Brick Township