SAFE EXCHANGE ZONE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
The Milpitas Police Department is excited to announce the opening of its Safe Exchange Zone. The Safe Exchange Zone provides a safe environment for people, who buy, sell, or trade items in private party transactions, with people they don’t know. Additionally, the area can be used as a safe and neutral site for child custody exchanges.
Located in the front lot of the Milpitas Police Department, located at 1275 N. Milpitas Blvd., the Safe Exchange Zone features two parking stalls, distinctly colored and marked with paint and signage. Additionally, there are two dedicated cameras recording 24-hour hours a day. The goal of the Safe Exchange Zone is to help reduce and deter fraudulent transactions, thefts, violent custody disputes and robberies.
The Milpitas Police Department recommends all private party transactions adhere to the following safety tips:
• Only conduct transactions with local buyers/sellers
• Insist on meeting at the Safe Exchange Zone or at least a public place
• Do not invite strangers into your home, and do not go to theirs
• Take your cell phone with you
• Tell a friend or family member about your intentions and when and where and with whom you are meeting
• Complete transactions during daylight hours
• Be extra cautious in buying/selling valuable items
• Trust your instincts and be cautious of scams
The exchange of drugs, weapons, alcohol, and/ or any illegal items is not permitted. The City of Milpitas employees cannot act as an official witness to transactions, do not give legal advice, and will not settle civil disputes related to any transactions. The City of Milpitas or its employees are not responsible in any way for the value, authenticity, or legitimacy of such transactions. All exchanges must be person-to-person. In the case of custody transfers, the Safe Exchange Zone is not a drop-off area where parents can leave children for a later pick-up time. The Safe Exchange Zone parking spaces are available free on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Milpitas Police Department would like to thank Planning Commissioner Evelyn Chua for recommending this project, and Milpitas Department of Public Works for completing much of the installation work.
Press Release By: Sergeant Bryan Hinkley
Date/Time: October 30, 2017, at 10:00 a.m.
