The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has seen a reduction in the number of robberies during transactions set up using online apps since teaming up with QuikTrip convenience stores to create exchange zones across the jurisdiction. In November 2017, CMPD and QuikTrip announced the creation of 14 designated areas in QT parking lots, where people can meet to conduct online transactions. The zones are parking spots marked with red paint and they are monitored by 24-hour camera. Officers also periodically check those areas.
In 2017, CMPD investigated at least 40 robberies during transactions set up using online apps such as LetGo, OfferUp, Facebook Marketplace etc. Since creating the exchange zones and working to educate the community, the number of cases has decreased to 34 in 2018 and 19 so far this year. One additional exchange zone was added to bring the total to 15.
Tips for the community:
- We encourage you to use these exchange zones but still want you to use caution and common sense.
- Meet during daylight hours and at a public place, where you expect other people to be around.
- Don’t go alone to meet a stranger. Bring someone with you.
- And if a deal seems to be too good to be true, it probably is.
List of exchange zones:
- 127 E. Woodlawn Road
- 6721 Albemarle Road
- 7205 The Plaza
- 2326 Sandy Porter Road
- 11230 N. Tryon St.
- 7115 South Blvd.
- 3025 Wilkinson Blvd.
- 116 Clanton Road
- 3206 Eastway Drive
- 5209 Central Ave.
- 4937 Sunset Road
- 4200 Brookshire Blvd.
- 5708 N. Tryon St.
- 10910 Golf Links Drive
- 3701 Arco Corporate Drive
