APD coins parking lot Safe Trade Location for online trades

Arcata, Ca., (KIEM) Have you ever used a classified advertisements website like Craigslist to buy or sell items in your area? If so, the Arcata Police Department has a solution to keep you safe when meeting a buyer or seller for the first time in person.

The police department opened up their parking lot and now use it as a “Safe Trade Location” enabling a safe place for locals to trade while deterring suspicious or unlawful behavior.

Arcata resident, Justin Gallegos expressed that he has never sold or purchased anything off the website himself but said now that a “Safe Trade Location” is set in place it’s something to think about.

“I have personally not used Craigslist before but my father has and he feels pretty good about it, but he always told me if ever I were to use it to go with someone, always have a buddy, a partner,” said Gallegos. “But if it’s going to be in the parking lot, there is going to be witnesses, there are cameras, it feels a lot safer to me.”

The Arcata Police Department shared that if a buyer or seller refuses to meet at the department’s parking lot that’s a “clue” and to trust your gut.