N.J. bill would formally allow police to set up ‘Craigslist’ safe spots

A bill passed by the New Jersey Assembly would allow police departments to set up designated areas for the public to complete purchases made on Craigslist or other internet marketplaces. 

A number of local police departments have already established safe spots including Evesham Twp and Cherry Hill. 

The legislation would also limits liability. Participating police departments would not be responsible for regulating the sales transactions or liable for any crimes committed by the participants.

Assemblyman Andrew Zwicker said having a lighted area on police department property that’s monitored with video cameras will make it safer for the buyer and seller to meet.

“This comes about from an intern of mine, a young person, who purchases stuff online all the time. It was a young woman who said this is something her parents are always concerned about if she’s purchasing something.”

Assemblyman Arthur Barclay said the legislation could help reduce the risk of scams or crimes.

“I have personal stories from people that I know and thought they were doing the right thing and ended up getting robbed or whatever. I just remember reading different articles throughout the country actually people unfortunately getting killed over this.”

The bill, that’s awaiting a vote in the state Senate, would also require the state Attorney General to launch a public awareness campaign about the designated safe areas.