The Athens Police Department established an ‘Exchange Zone” to facilitate safer custody and property exchanges.

The zone, located at the department’s facility on Hobbs Street, includes two marked spots for exchanges and is also equipped with two surveillance cameras for recording the area. Chief Anthony Pressnell said the growing number of e-commerce transactions prompted the department to establish the zone.

“This is a safer option for those who have custody exchanges of children and for those who have concerns about buying or selling property online and meeting with a stranger to make the exchange.”

Pressnell made sure to thank Public Works and its Street Dept. for assisting with setup of the zone area.