Buying On Craigslist? Manchester Sets Safe Zone For Transactions

MANCHESTER, NJ -- As safety concerns have risen in the wake of reports of unsuspecting people being victimized trying to pick up or deliver an item purchased through Craigslist, Manchester Township officials have established a "Safe Exchange Zone."

The zone -- two parking spaces side by side, marked by a sign, in the main visitor parking lot at the township municipal building on Colonial Drive -- is under continuous video surveillance, Manchester Capt. Todd Malland said.

It was created as a means of addressing safety concerns brought about by people involved with online purchases from websites such as Craigslist, eBay, Facebook, and classified ads, as well as to provide a safe location for families with visitation rights to make custodial exchanges, Malland said.

The well-lit designated exchange area consists of two clearly marked parking spaces adjacent to town hall, where buyers, sellers and families can meet and make exchanges. The marked area is under 24-hour video surveillance, which is recorded by state-of-the-art high definition security cameras, he said.

Township and/or police department employees may not be asked to act as witnesses, or be a part of these transactions in any capacity, he said.

While the “Safe Exchange Zone” provides a safe area for buyers and sellers to meet, it is important to remember that people you meet online are strangers and can pose dangers. Not every buyer or seller you meet online is someone who is true with their intent. When making arrangements to complete online transactions face-to-face, residents are reminded to:

• Complete all transactions during daylight hours, if possible
• Bring a cell phone in case of emergency
• Notify friends or family about the details of the exchange beforehand
• Never invite strangers to your home or agree to meet at a stranger’s home
• Reconsider any transaction with an individual who refuses to meet at a “Safe Exchange Zone”