Safe Exchange Zone

To provide residents a more safe location for private party transactions, including online purchases and for child custody transfers, your local law enforcement agencies have created "Safe Exchange Zones" which are located at the Monmouth and Independence Police Departments and there is also a joint site between Dallas PD and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, which is located in the parking lot of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. Two designated parking spots are available at each of these locations, which are all under 24/7 video surveillance.

Using the Exchange Zone is meant to provide a more safe alternative to meeting a stranger at a private residence or unfamiliar location. In the case of child custody transfers, the Safe Exchange Zone is not a drop off where parents can leave children for a later pick-up time.  All exchanges must be person-to-person. 

No appointments are necessary when using the Safe Exchange Zone.

What is a safe exchange zone?  

A safe exchange zone are two designated and signed parking stalls at your local police department or sheriff’s office. These spots can be used on a first-come, first-served basis. These zones are clearly marked by a sign and well-lit so people can meet and sell their goods with less fear of being a victim of a quick or violent rip-off, or for separated or divorced parents to safely exchange children. 

Why use a safe exchange zone?  

Safe exchange programs have proven to be a much safer way for individuals to conduct a transaction rather than giving a stranger their home address, meeting them at a gas station or a store parking lot and risk becoming a victim. Safe exchange zones are under 24/7 video surveillance and are all located at your local police department or at the Sheriff’s Office. 

Safety recommendations for citizens:

• Police Officers will not assist with any transactions, unless a crime has been or is suspected to have happened. 
• The Safe Exchange Zone is meant for person-to-person transactions. Property may not be dropped off and left unattended.
• Sellers are required to take their property with them if the buyer does not show up.
• Only conduct transactions with local buyers/sellers.
• Do not go to a transaction alone if at all possible.
• Make sure a friend or family member is aware of the details or where you are going to meet the other party. 
• Complete the transaction during daylight hours.
• Be extra cautious in buying/selling valuable items.
• Only use cash or money orders.
• Trust your instincts; if it sounds like a scam it probably is a scam.
• If someone is not willing to come to one of the designated locations, it is probably not a legitimate transaction.
• If you are carrying a large sum of cash, either before or after the transaction, do not make it obvious and be careful that you are not followed after the transaction.

Beware of common scams, like checks for an amount higher than the amount of the deal or “cashier’s checks” that are forged and presented when the bank is closed. If you are given a cashier’s check, money order or other equivalent, call the bank — at the number listed online, not a number the buyer gives you — to verify the validity of the check.