Safe Exchange Zone Established By Hamilton Co. Sheriff's Office

HAMILTON COUNTY, IN — The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office unveiled its new "Safe Exchange Zone" Monday in an effort to cut down on possible fraud or robberies that can take place during previously arranged transactions, child custody exchanges, or other meetings. Sheriff's office officials say because of the increase in these and internet arranged exchanges, Sheriff Mark Bowen felt it's important to create a safe location for area residents to connect. Hamilton County's Safe Exchange Zone is located at the Sheriff's Office complex at 18100 Cumberland Road in Noblesville.

The Sheriff's office says two parking spaces located near the main entrance are reserved for the Safe Exchange Zone, which is well-lit at night and covered by 24-hour video surveillance.

Sheriff Bowen says he hopes people will use the zone to meet and sell their goods with less fear of a quick or violent rip-off, in addition to Child custody exchanges.

The Sheriff’s Office says that although deputies do not participate or act as official witnesses in the transactions, they can be dispatched to keep the peace, prevent disorderly conduct, or for criminal offenses.

A Safe Exchange Zone is also available around the clock in the main lobby of the Sheriff’s Office for those needing an indoor location.

Sheriff's Office officials are sharing a few safety tips to keep in mind when conducting such transactions:

• Only do transactions with local buyers/sellers
• Do not go to a transaction alone
• Make sure a friend or family member is aware of the transaction details
• Insist on meeting in a public area like the Sheriff’s Office Safe Exchange Zone
• Do not go into someone else’s house, and do not allow them into yours
• Complete the transaction during daylight hours if possible
• Be extra cautious when buying or selling valuable ite ms such as vehicles and jewelry
• Only use cash or money orders to complete your transactions
• Trust your instincts, if it sounds like a scam it probably is
• If someone is not willing to come to the Sheriff’s Office to conduct a transaction, this would be a sign to beware and possibly rethink the meeting.

More details: Hamilton County Sheriff's Office

Image via Hamilton County Sheriff's Office