CHILDERSBURG, Ala. – The City of Childersburg and its Police Department have established a Safe Exchange Zone in the parking lot of the City’s new Police/Judicial Complex on Hwy 280. A pair of parking spaces are designated for the process, under multiple camera views.
Safe exchange zones are designated areas, often at police stations, where individuals can meet to conduct transactions safely, reducing the risk of crime. Most, like the new exchange zone in Childersburg, are under constant surveillance.
The Childersburg Safe Exchange Zone was established to provide a secure environment for individuals to meet for various transactions, such as buying and selling items online or conducting custody exchanges. Located adjacent to the Childersburg Police Station, it is monitored by law enforcement, which helps deter criminal activity and provides a sense of safety for participants.
Utilizing this zone is free of charge, making it accessible to everyone, even visitors from outside of Childersburg. Those using the zone should always agree to meet there rather than a private location. This reduces the risk of scams or violence.
If possible, conduct transactions during daylight hours, although this zone is well-lit and monitored at all times. It’s advisable to bring identification and, if necessary, ask for proof of identity from the other party involved in the transaction.
“Our goal is to foster trust within the community, encouraging safe buying and selling practices, as well as to provide for hassle-free child custody exchanges, [promoting] a neutral and secure environment for parents,” said Childersburg Mayor Ken Wesson.
His sentiments are echoed by Childersburg Police Chief Kevin Koss, who said, “By utilizing the Safe Exchange Zone, you can conduct transactions with greater peace of mind, knowing they are in a monitored and secure environment, 24/7/365.”
