Cranford Police Establish an Internet Safe Exchange Location

Online platforms such as Offer Up, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace have provided a means for individuals to buy, sell new and used items with ease, but where should Cranford residents conduct in-person transactions?  Thanks to two Cranford Police Officers, an internet safe exchange location has recently been established outside of the Cranford Police Department.

Detective John Rattigan and Patrolman Christopher Folinusz recognized that the frequency of online purchasing has increased recently.  While many individuals comfortably interact with potential buyers or sellers online, when it comes to exchanging goods in-person, a common problem arises when determining “where” to conduct the in-person transaction.  After submitting their proposal to the organization, Detective Rattigan and Patrolman Folinusz unveiled their internet safe exchange location today, conveniently located in the Cranford Municipal Parking Lot adjacent to the Municipal Building.  The first 2 parking spaces nearest the entrance off of Springfield Avenue are marked with a “internet safe exchange location” sign and are monitored by surveillance cameras.

Some other tips for buying and selling include the following:

1. Use cash to conduct the transaction and beware of common scams.
2. Meet during daylight hours.
3. Bring a friend to feel extra comfortable, especially with high-value items.
4. If you run into any red flags like an individual refusing to meet at a public place, trust your instincts and cancel the transaction.

According to Safe Exchange Point, the safest exchange locations are easily accessible, visible with adequate signage, located in a well-lit public place visible to passersby, and in locations with high quality video surveillance.  While the Cranford Police Department provides this free location to exchange goods in person, no members of the Cranford Police Department are present to regulate sales transactions or become involved in civil matter disputes.  “The purpose of establishing this location was to welcome our residents to a safe location that has individuals nearby 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,” said Chief Ryan Greco.

Pictured from left to right – Patrolman Christopher Folinusz and Detective John Rattigan at the Internet Safe Exchange Location at the Cranford Municipal Building

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Contact:

D/Lt Matthew R. Nazzaro

Community Support Services Division / PIO

Cranford Police Department