SafeTrade Program

Buying or selling an item through an online marketplace often means meeting someone you do not know in person. The Lauderhill Police Department SafeTrade Program provides residents with a designated location where these transactions can take place in a more visible and monitored environment.

Whether you are buying, selling, or exchanging an item through Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, Craigslist, or another online platform, consider using the SafeTrade location instead of meeting at your home, a private residence, or an unfamiliar location.

While no meeting place can eliminate all risk, conducting an exchange at the Police Department can provide an added level of security and may discourage individuals with criminal intentions.

SafeTrade Location

Lauderhill Police Department
6279 West Oakland Park Boulevard
Lauderhill, FL 33313

The SafeTrade area is located in the front parking lot of the Lauderhill Police Department.

SafeTrade signs are posted at both the north and south vehicle entrances to help direct visitors to the designated area. A parking space directly in front of the Police Department is clearly marked with SafeTrade signage.

The area is:

• Well-lit
• Located directly in front of the Police Department
• Clearly identified with SafeTrade signage
• Under 24-hour video surveillance

There is no charge to use the SafeTrade location.

Before You Meet

Even when using the SafeTrade location, always use good judgment when meeting someone you have contacted online.

• Meet during daylight hours whenever possible.
• Let a family member or friend know where you are going and who you are meeting.
• Consider bringing another person with you.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash when possible.
• Inspect and verify the item before completing the transaction.
• Do not share unnecessary personal information, including your home address.
• Be cautious of deals or circumstances that seem unusual or too good to be true.
• If the other person refuses to meet at the Police Department, consider that a warning sign.
• Trust your instincts. If something does not feel right, leave and do not complete the transaction.

Important Information

The SafeTrade area provides a designated, monitored location for person-to-person transactions. Use of the area does not guarantee the safety or legitimacy of a transaction.

Lauderhill Police officers do not inspect merchandise, verify payments, determine the authenticity or ownership of items, or mediate disputes between buyers and sellers as part of the SafeTrade Program.

If you observe suspicious activity or believe you may be the victim of a crime, contact the Lauderhill Police Department.

Emergency: 911
Non-Emergency: 954-764-HELP (4357)