DCSO offers “safe havens” for Craigslist users
Information and photos provided by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) is offering its parking lots as “safe havens” for buyers and sellers on Craigslist. If buyers or sellers are completing an online transaction, the DCSO suggests that exchanges be made at the closest law enforcement station to protect both the buyer and seller.
“Most Internet-related crimes involve personal scams, and not in-person transactions,” Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock noted. Spurlock described the parking lots as “a preventative measure to ensure there is a safe place to allow (buyers and sellers) to conduct their normal lives and business.” The DCSO will not be involved in the transactions or oversee them.
Creating safe zones to finalize online sales has become a growing trend in policing. More than 60 million people in the U.S. use Craigslist each month and it has become necessary to designate “safe areas” for transactions to take place.
Sergeant Ron Hanavan, public information officer for Douglas County stated, “It is important for our community to feel safe. We are asking all Craigslist users or any other online site to keep a cell phone with them, take a friend with you, and let someone know where you are going – even if it is to one of the DCSO parking lots we are offering.”
The addresses for the DCSO law enforcement facilities are: Douglas County Justice Center (picture at top), 4000 Justice Way, Castle Rock and the Highlands Ranch Substation (second picture), 9250 Zotos Drive, Highlands Ranch. For more information visit www.dcsheriff.net.
Editor’s note: The Castle Pines community garage sale is May 15 and 16; consider selling your wares during this fun community event as well. See additional details on page 13.
