DOVER, DELAWARE (12/10/2015) City police are warning the public about thefts that happened when Cragislist sellers met with prospective buyers.
In three recent incidents, sellers met prospective buyers in the parking lot of a shopping center. The buyer then asked to inspect the device and fled without paying, police said.
No injuries or altercations were reported, but police said the potential for danger is high.
Officials invited anyone to use the Dover Police Department public parking lot for such meetings or in front of the department on Bank Lane. The front porch area of the police department also may be used but visitors may not hinder access to the building.
“Please keep in mind that the department nor any of its employees will act as a witness to a sale or be involved in any agreements or civil matters involving sales once completed,” officials said in a news release.
Police also offered these tips for conducting transactions for Internet sales:
- Insist on a public meeting place like a cafe, shopping center parking lot, etc.
- Do not meet in a secluded place, or invite strangers into your home.
- Be especially careful buying/selling high value items.
- Consider making high-value exchanges at your local police station.
- Tell a friend or family member where you’re going or when you’re having a buyer/seller in your home.
- Take your cellphone along if you have one.
- Consider having a friend accompany you.
- Trust your instincts.