Safe Exchange Area Information

Citizens who buy and sell items online may now conduct their transactions at the Harmar Township Police Department.  For your convenience, Harmar Township has designated the upper parking lot adjacent to the Harmar Township Police Department offices as a safe exchanges area.  The parking lot has 24-hour surveillance.  It is recommended that transactions be made during daylight hours.  

The exchange of any contraband, stolen property or other illegal items is prohibited.  Remember all transactions are being recorded.  

The majority of Craigslist users, Facebook Marketplace users and others selling items online are trustworthy and well-meaning.  Nevertheless, please take the same common-sense precautions online as you would offline.  

Please keep in mind that the Township of Harmar and the Harmar Township Police Department is in no way a party to any transaction that may be conducted between private citizens.  They assume no responsibility or liability whatsoever for any loss, damage, injury, or other consequence from a citizen conducting a private transaction on Harmar Township property.  No member of the Township or Police Department will guarantee, ensure, insure, safeguard, or otherwise participate in such transactions.  Nor do we guarantee that a police officer will be on the property at all times.  

When meeting someone to make an exchange, please remember to:

• Insist on a public meeting place like a cafe, bank, or shopping center.  
• Never meet in a secluded place or invite strangers into your home. 
• Be especially carefull when buying or selling high value items. 
• Tell a family member or friend where you are going. 
• Consider having a friend accompany you.  
• Try to conduct your transaction in the daytime.
• Only carry the cash you need for the transaction.
• Trust your instincts.