We know a good idea when we see it. Other police agencies across the nation have begun to offer this service.
If you use online classified ads, be safe when meeting the person who is selling or buying. Starting immediately we are making our Headquarters Office availible for folks looking for a “safe place” to make legal transactions. Please note that we will not settle disputes.
PRESS RELEASE:
QACSO TO OFFER “SAFE PLACE” FOR TRANSACTIONS
In the news recently there was a tragic story about an elderly Georgia couple who arranged meeting to close on an online classified advertisement. The victims had cash and met with someone they believed was going to possibly sell them a classic car. The couple disappeared, their bodies were recovered several days later and the suspect was arrested.
“While this hasn’t occurred in Queen Anne’s County, we want to make sure that the citizens of Queen Anne’s have a safe place to conduct transactions that are initiated through online sites like Craigslist” said Sheriff Gary Hofmann. “Persons who seek to prey on our citizens will not likely want to conduct transactions with law enforcement present”.
Effective immediately, the Office of the Sheriff for Queen Anne’s County welcomes the public to close online deals at our headquarters location either in the parking lot or the office lobby. “It can be a bit unnerving to meet a total stranger, or have someone come to your residence to look at or buy valuable items especially on cash transactions. We believe that by offering a safe haven it will give folks some peace of mind” said Hofmann.
The Office of the Sheriff Headquarters is located at 505 Railroad Avenue in Centreville, Maryland. Staff is on duty 24 hours daily and to ensure personnel are aware of your scheduled transaction persons are encouraged to advise the Duty Office by calling (410) 758-0770 prior to your arrival.