Do you sometimes consider buying or selling something on Craigslist and back off because you have heard that sellers and buyers have been robbed, assaulted, even killed?
A 2014 study of Craigslist transactions by “The Daily Dot” for just 30 days found 74 criminal incidents in 27 states and the District of Columbia, with 11 resulting in violence, three ending in death and eight where there was the threat of violence.
In an effort to protect Wake Forest residents from becoming victims of crime when selling or purchasing items advertised online, the Wake Forest Police Department is introducing a new initiative designed to provide a safe zone for transactions called “Operation Safe Sale.”
Beginning yesterday, May 26, Wake Forest residents who are selling or purchasing items advertised online may come to the police department at 225 South Taylor Street to complete their transaction. Transactions may be made in the police department parking lot or inside the lobby, either with or without an officer present.
Either party can ask that police office be present to check the serial number of the item through state or national databases to see if it is stolen property. To schedule an appointment with an officer, call 919-554=6150. The officer or the police department will not make any representations or warranties. If an item is found to be stolen as a result of the database checks, it will be seized and criminal charges may result.
Operation Safe Sale aligns with Goal 2 of the Wake Forest Strategic Plan: Enhance and Promote a Safe and Connected Community and Objective F: Enhance the sense of safety in the town.
According to Police Chief Jeff Leonard, the initiative is an effective way the police department can ensure the safety of the town’s citizens and reinforce its commitment to the strategic plan.
“We’re committed to safeguarding the lives and property of the people in our community,” said Leonard. “Operation Safe Sale offers us an invaluable way to do that and reduce the sense of anxiety many residents feel whenever they are buying or selling items advertised online. By helping our residents feel safer, we’re improving the quality of life in our community and accomplishing an important goal in the strategic plan.”
Leonard says the department will continue to explore initiatives that align with the strategic plan and specifically the second goal.
In January the department began partnering with Nextdoor, the free private social network for neighborhoods, as a way of fostering two-way communication between police and residents in Wake Forest neighborhoods.
