Internet Purchase Exchange Location

East Hazel Crest Police Department is joining the nationwide trend of offering an "Internet Purchase Exchange Location" where on line buyers and sellers can carry out their transactions. With numerous nationally published reports of Craigslist and eBay type transactions going tragically bad, safety and security has become an issue for all involved.

Often the biggest concern for online buyers and sellers is where to meet and their personal safety.  The East Hazel Crest Police Department is opening up its' lobby and parking lot located at 17223 South Throop Street as a "Internet Purchase Exchange Location" for buyers and sellers to safely meet and carry out their transactions.  The key benefit of this project is that an ill intended buyer or seller is less likely to victimize someone at a police station.  East Hazel Crest Police Department Officers are not involved in facilitating the transactions but the Department hopes to offer an "Internet Purchase Exchange Location" where users will have the peace of mind that if needed, officers are not far away.

Prior to setting up the exchange, we recommend you consider doing the following:

• Clarify all details of the transaction and get a description of who will be at the transaction and what type of vehicle they will be in.
• Bring a friend or family member to the transaction.
• Conduct the transaction during daylight hours.
• If they hesitate at all about meeting at a police department, that is a strong indicator to end the deal.
• Do not reveal your home address.
• Keep a safe distance from the other person and never get in their vehicle.
• Visualize an escape route in the event you need to get out of a bad situation.
• If you feel uncomfortable about any aspect of the transaction, trust your instincts and move on.

This community service offers our residents an extra layer of security and gives our residents increased confidence that their transactions can be carried out in a safe environment. If you have any questions regarding this program, feel free to contact the East Hazel Crest Police Department at 708-798-2186.