The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) has created an "E-Commerce Exchange Zone" at each district headquarters and encourages community members to use the front parking lots or lobby (if available) when meeting people to complete their online purchases and transactions.

As more people conduct private business transactions online, there has been a nationwide increase in crime with respect to these transactions. Therefore, IMPD is taking a proactive approach to deter crime by creating an Online Purchase Safe Zone, or "E-Commerce Zone." In an attempt to reduce the likelihood of citizens falling victim to scams or more serious crimes; IMPD has designated the front parking lot or lobby (if available) as the Online Purchase Safety Zone. These areas are under 24-hour video surveillance.

Citizens who are conducting private business transactions by answering newspaper advertisements, or through online retailers such as E-Bay, Craigslist, OfferUp, Facebook etc. can finalize their business transactions in a safe place. While law enforcement officials will not be involved in verification, monitoring or facilitating the private transactions, this program is designed to provide a known, well-lit and secure location to conduct business. Citizens can request the other person to meet at this E-Commerce Zone, but if the other party declines, then chances are it is a sign of "buyer beware."

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department is not reacting to any one specific incident, but rather taking a pro-active approach to provide a location where the citizens can feel safe meeting an unknown individual to conduct their private transaction.

"E-Commerce Exchange Zones" near Broad Ripple are listed below:

North District Headquarters - 3120 E. 30th Street, Lobby Open Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Closed Holidays), Reserved Parking Available 24-Hours in the north parking lot

East District Headquarters - 201 N. Shadeland Avenue, Reserved Parking Available 24-Hours outside Door #1

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department strictly prohibits the following transactions: Illegal transactions, including, but not limited to: contraband, narcotics, illegal substances, stolen property, or other illegal items and/or exchanges, Transactions involving firearms, firearms parts, ammunition or explosives, Large, bulky items that would disrupt the operations of the police facility, The delivery of any packages or goods to these facilities on behalf of a purchaser.

The Police Department's video surveillance operates 24-hours a day and anyone using the "E-Commerce Exchange Zone" is subject to being recorded. This service requires no prior authorization or police response.