"Safe Zone" for Craigslist or Other Like Transactions

A new program offers the Grosse Pointe Woods Public Safety department lobby as a “safe zone” for Craigslist or other such transactions.

If you are contemplating engaging in a Craigslist-type exchange, consider making the transaction in the Grosse Pointe Woods Public Safety department. If someone does not want to meet in the city parking lot or the Public Safety lobby, this should raise a "red flag." If an individual does not agree to meet in this safe zone, do not engage further. Anyone who would balk at meeting there should make you wary.

The Public Safety lobby is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. There are video cameras in the lobby and facing the sidewalk. Upon arrival, notify the dispatcher or officer behind the counter that you are here to conduct a transaction. Residents do not need to call in advance. Officers will not serve as witnesses or in any other way take part in the transactions unless something gives rise to their involvement.

Being proactive and implementing a safe zone for such transactions allows our residents the opportunity to meet in a safe environment. Nationwide, many Craigslist scams have resulted in robberies, assaults and even homicides. Locally, officers have responded to complaints and taken reports of people being scammed out of property and money through purported legitimate Craigslist transactions.