Miami Beach cops welcome online exchanges in police station lobby

The question comes up every time a transaction gets made through Craigslist, Facebook or other websites: Where should we meet?

Miami Beach police are encouraging people to hold such meetups in the lobby of their headquarters at 1100 Washington Ave.

“It’s a good alternative to meeting someone on the street,” said police spokesman Ernesto Rodriguez.

He said police thankfully haven’t had an influx of calls regarding transactions gone bad, but the department wanted to be proactive by reminding people they can use the public space in the lobby to feel safer during exchanges.

“A lot of times these types of transactions are scheduled at night when people get off work,” Rodriguez said.

The lobby is open 24/7 and always staffed by a police officer.

Even if the police department isn’t convenient, cops suggest keeping these tips in mind when arranging to meet someone to complete an online sale:

▪ Meet in a public place.

▪ Do not meet in a secluded area or invite strangers to your home.

▪ Tell a friend or family member where you are going.

▪ Take your cellphone with you.

▪ Consider having a friend accompany you.

This story was originally published July 15, 2015 at 2:44 PM with the headline "Miami Beach cops welcome online exchanges in police station lobby."