Cities promote safety by urging online buyers to utilize police stations for transactions.

CEDAR PARK, Texas – If you’re planning to purchase something on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, it’s crucial to be aware that many local police departments, including Cedar Park, are providing a safer alternative location for your online transactions. Launched in 2015, the SafeTrade program aims to address the numerous incidents where transactions on classified sites have turned chaotic.

An array of police departments are participating in this initiative. Among them is the Cedar Park Police Department. They have designated their station, situated at 911 Quest Pkwy in Cedar Park, as a convenient meeting spot for online buyers and sellers. The Police Department’s parking lot and lobby are equipped with 24-hour surveillance cameras, ensuring maximum security. Moreover, these areas are well-lit and situated in public spaces, allowing for a safer transaction experience.

The Georgetown Police Department, located at 3500 DB Wood Rd, is also part of the SafeTrade program. They offer access to their lobby during business hours, and their parking lot is accessible 24/7. It’s advisable to notify the department in advance if any assistance is required. However, it is essential to remember that sales disputes are considered civil matters and should not necessitate police intervention.

For Leander residents, the front of the local police station is open for online shoppers. It is clearly marked and kept under constant camera surveillance. However, the lobby cannot be utilized for online transactions. In order to maintain safety, the Leander Police Department strictly prohibits the sale or purchase of weapons, medications, and other illegal items. Additionally, police personnel will not involve themselves in the transactions. To ensure a secure exchange, it is preferable to conduct transactions during daylight hours.

The Manor Police Department welcomes online shoppers to utilize their lobby during business hours, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Moreover, their parking lot is available at all times and is equipped with surveillance cameras and adequate lighting. Buyers and sellers are reminded that any transaction-related issues should be resolved civically, as police intervention is reserved for cases involving criminal law violations or safety concerns. Similar to other participating departments, the possession or sale of weapons, medications, and unlawful items is strictly prohibited.

The Pflugerville Police Department provides access to their lobby during regular business hours and permits online transactions in their parking lot at any time. Participants can avail themselves of these safe exchange spaces based on their convenience. Meanwhile, the Round Rock Police Department designates Safety Exchange Zones in both their public parking area and lobby. The lobby operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, and the parking lot remains accessible 24/7. These zones are meticulously illuminated and monitored round-the-clock to ensure optimal safety for all parties involved.

The San Marcos Police Department acknowledges the importance of safe online transactions and offers two parking spaces as well as a lobby, which are open 24/7. All areas within the department premises are diligently recorded to enhance security and maintain accountability.

Lastly, the Sunset Valley Police Department extends an invitation to use their parking lot and lobby, operating during regular business hours, for secure exchanges. By ensuring access to designated safe areas, they aim to alleviate concerns associated with online transactions.

To learn more about the SafeTrade program and its participating police departments, visit their website by clicking here. By prioritizing safety and providing secure alternatives, these departments aim to facilitate hassle-free online transactions within their communities.