You’re looking to sell that old coffee table but you’re reluctant to invite a stranger into your home to complete the sale. Look no further than the Rockville City Police Department station, which offers its parking lot as a safe place for buyers and sellers to complete a transaction arranged through online services.
The parking lot of the station, at 2 W. Montgomery Ave., is well-lit, under constant video surveillance and open to the public for transactions 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The RCPD offers these recommendations for buying or selling items via an online service:
- Ask questions before going to buy an item. If the seller can’t answer questions, there is a strong possibility they may not actually have the item and could be looking to commit a crime.
- Consider not buying from sellers who only list an email address. This could be a sign that the seller has something to hide. Request a telephone number and be cautious if they refuse.
- Meet in a public place, like a police station. Criminals seek easy targets and do not want witnesses.
- Do not go alone. Ask a friend to accompany you.
- Never go to a second location. If you arrive at a prearranged meeting place and are asked to go somewhere else, refuse.
- Trust your instincts. If a deal sounds too good to be true, it more than likely is.
- Stay in communication. Let your spouse, friends, family or coworkers know where you are going, who you are meeting and when you will be back.
- Be on guard and be smart. Don’t wear expensive or “flashy” clothing. Doing so can invite criminal activity.
- Report suspicious activity. Call Rockville police at 240-314-8900.
Learn more about the RCPD and its programs and services at www.rockvillemd.gov/crime-safety.