CPD reminds residents of safer alternative for transactions, exchanges

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Sgt. Joey Duncan is seen in a screen capture from a video posted by the Cullman Police Department on Facebook. Duncan reminded residents of the department’s Safe Exchange Zone, which provides a safe, monitored location for transactions, as well as child custody exchanges. (Facebook/Cullman Police Department)

CULLMAN, Ala. – In light of a recent violent crime that occurred during what was supposed to be a transaction for an online purchase, the Cullman Police Department is reminding residents of its Safe Exchange Zone that was established in 2017 in the CPD parking lot.  

City of Cullman Director of Public Safety Brian Bradberry said, “The establishment of our Safe Exchange Zone (was) crucial in fostering a secure environment for our community. It not only provides a safe place for transactions and exchanges, but also helps to reduce the risk of crime associated with these activities.”

The intent of the zone is to reduce incidents of fraud, theft, violence or disputes during in-person  transactions and exchanges. This also includes child custody exchanges.

While officers cannot and will not assist with transactions or exchanges that take place in the Safe Exchange Zone, the area is under 24/7 surveillance, extremely well lit and is steps away from the department’s front entrance. 

“While officers typically do not actively monitor the transactions, the presence of surveillance cameras adds an extra layer of security, reassuring individuals that they are in a safe environment to conduct their business,” shared CPD Sgt. Joey Duncan. 

In addition to the Safe Exchange Zone, the CPD advises residents to follow a few simple tips to maximize personal safety during meet-ups. 

  • Only trade with local buyers and sellers
  • Never go alone to meet someone you don’t know
  • Make sure a family member or friend is aware of the transaction details such as seller name and meet-up location
  • Insist on meeting in a public area, like the CPD’s Safe Exchange Zone, or another well-lit public area 
  • When possible, complete the transaction during daytime hours, when locations are more populated
  • If a meeting occurs after sundown, complete the transaction in a well-lit public location, such as the CPD’s Safe Exchange Zone
  • Be cautious when buying or selling valuable items such as vehicles or jewelry
  • If someone is not willing to meet you at the CPD’s Safe Exchange Zone, the transaction is likely a scam

The Cullman Police Department is located at 601 Second Ave. NE. The area is covered by surveillance cameras 24/7 and officers staff the department around the clock. The Safe Exchange Zone is clearly marked in the department’s parking lot.

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