Dartmouth Designates “Safe Haven” for Online Transactions
If you've ever had second thoughts about buying something online, the Dartmouth Police hope to ease some of those concerns.
After seeking input from the public, the Dartmouth Police Department announced on its Facebook page this morning it will be implementing a "safe haven" for online transactions.
Acting Chief Robert Szala has designated Dartmouth Police Headquarters the "DART Zone" (Designated Area for Resale and Trade).
Although the initial idea was to make the program a safe area to conduct business from Craigslist listings, the posting notes it's a place for any type of transaction including popular "yard sale" pages on Facebook.
Anyone wanting to take advantage of the new program is asked to conduct their transactions either in the lobby of the temporary station of in the parking lot outside.
If using the parking lot, you are advised not to block the flow of traffic. If going inside, you are asked to check in at the window and inform the officer of your intentions.
"Safe zones" for online transactions have popped up across across the country, usually in or around police stations, in an effort to crackdown on crime related to online resale and trade.
New Bedford City Councilor Kerry Winterson introduced the idea to begin a program within the city earlier this year. The Ward Five councilor got the idea after hearing of the success the city of Pawtucket, RI was having in their police stations.