SAFE EXCHANGE ZONE
Spring Lake Heights Police Department Chief of Police Edward Gunnell has recently established a “Safe Exchange Zone” at the Spring Lake Heights Municipal Building where residents can complete online purchase transactions and make child custodial exchanges. The “Safe Exchange Zone” was created as a means of addressing safety concerns brought about by residents 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. The zone’s proximity to police personnel is meant to increase residents’ peace of mind when engaging in such transactions with unfamiliar individuals and when conducting child custody exchanges.
The “Safe Exchange Zone” is located in the rear or the Spring Lake Heights Municipal Building adjacent to the doors leading to the Spring Lake Heights Police Department’s foyer. The “Safe Exchange Zone” is located in a lighted area and is under 24-hour video surveillance which is recorded by state-of-the-art high definition police department security cameras.
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 their 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” such as our own
Borough police officers, or any other Borough Official or employee, will not be permitted to witness, give legal advice, or settle disputes relating to any transactions. The Borough cannot make any guarantees, assurances, or promises with respect to the condition or authenticity of any items exchanged between parties.
For additional information on the Spring Lake Heights Police Department’s “Safe Exchange Zone” please call the department’s Main Telephone Number at (732) 449 – 6161 and speak with any officer.