Police 'exchange zone' aims to curb fraud, robberies from online deals

In a move to improve safety for people who buy and sell goods after connecting online, police in Peel Region are offering an 'exchange zone'where people can complete transactions in the safety of a police station parking lot.

• Safety tips for 'Wild West' of online sales

The zone consists of two parking spaces outside Peel's 22 Division office at 7750 Hurontario St. in Brampton, Ont. The parking spaces are monitored byvideo cameras.

The exchange zone was already usedover the past weekend, said Peel Regional Police Sgt. Josh Colley.

"Obviously, if successful, we will introduce it in other divisions, as well," said Colley, who added that the exchange zone is available 24 hours a day.

The move is aimed at curbing violent crimes, such as robberies. It's also intended to reduce fraud related to online transactions.

Police say the cameras will collect information "for the purpose of promoting public safety" but a news release reminds potential users that"officers are unable to assist in negotiating civil property transactions."

Calls for 'exchange zone' in Toronto

Toronto Coun. Norm Kelly thinks Toronto police should follow Peel Region's lead in creating exchange zones outside police stations.

"I think it gives a level of comfort that other public places might not have," said Kelly.

Although city council can't direct Toronto police to create an exchange zone, Kelly said councillorscould request that the police consider it. He plans to bring the matter up with city council on Tuesday.

In September, police in Kingston, Ont., created a safe zone for online transactions. The OPP in Windsor have created a similar space for transactions.

The police moves come as the popularity of selling items on sites such as Craigslist and Kijiji continues to grow.

Safety issues related to doing business online came under scrutiny following the 2013 murder of Hamilton man
Tim Bosma.

Bosma vanished after leaving his home with two men who came to test drive a truck he advertised for sale online. His body was found burned beyond recognition in an incinerator more than a week later. In June, a jury found the two men guilty of first-degree murder in his death.