Exchange Zone For Safe Meetups Open In West Springfield

WEST SPRINGFIELD, VA — In some cases of meetups for internet purchases, you may want to find a safe spot where you don't become the victim of a robbery or another crime. Fairfax County Police have introduced a new exchange zone in West Springfield.

The West Springfield District Police Station at 6140 Rolling Road, Springfield, created two dedicated parking spots for meetups. Police say the spots can be used for online purchase meetings, child custody transfers, meeting a person for the first time, and more.

"Unfortunately, police all across the country respond to numerous reports of robberies, assaults and thefts as people who just want to buy an item become unsuspecting victims," police shared on Nextdoor. "The police also respond to many domestic issues that come from child custody transfers."

The parking spaces are painted with blue stripes and are located in front of the police station. As part of the West Springfield Governmental Center, the parking lot is monitored 24 hours a day by a video camera.

If law enforcement are needed to respond in the parking lot, residents can call police at the number listed on the sign (703-691-2131 for non-emergencies or 911 for emergencies) or come into the station to speak to an officer.

Police previously introduced exchange zone parking spaces in 2016 at the Sully District Police Station in Chantilly. The City of Fairfax Police also have an exchange zone at its police headquarters.