The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office encourages you to be safe when conducting business transactions resulting from online commerce. We are excited to announce the addition of another safe exchange zone for our resident’s convenience. The designated safe zone is at our new District 2 Office, located at 992 Tamiami Trail Suite A, Port Charlotte.
The Sheriff’s Office has designated areas at every District Office as E-Commerce Exchange Safe Zones for customers meeting with individuals to transact business resulting from online deals.
Websites such as Letgo, OfferUp, and other mobile apps have been growing in popularity as conduits for transactions of goods, currency, or any type of exchange facilitated by internet services. The E-Commerce Exchange Safe Zone is a proactive program aimed at deterring criminals from preying on victims through fraudulent online transactions. These areas are well lit and equipped with video surveillance cameras. The locations offer an enhanced sense of security, which reduces the fear of crime.
Regardless of where you ultimately decide to meet individuals, following are a few tips to remember when meeting an unknown person to buy or sell an item:
- Tell a friend or family member where you are going and when to expect you back
- If possible, always have someone accompany you
- Bring your phone so you can call for help
- Meet in a public, well-lit place with people around if you choose not to use the Sheriff’s Office.
Locations of Safe Exchange Zones in Charlotte County:
District 1 Office: 11051 Willmington Boulevard, Englewood
*NEW* District 2 Office: 992 Tamiami Trail Suite A, Port Charlotte
District 3 Office: 3280 Tamiami Trail Suite 505 (Promenades Mall), Port Charlotte
District 4 Office: 7474 Utilities Road (Headquarters) , Punta Gorda
Punta Gorda Police Department: 1410 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda