As we begin 2023, the Town of Prescott Valley would like to remind our community that there is a marked zone, the “Safe Exchange Zone,” in the police department parking lot. This designated zone provides an area for people to meet and sell their goods with less fear of a quick or violent rip-off, or to safely exchange children when ordered by a court.

Child custody is one of the most contentious parts of a divorce or separation, by bringing up the stress and anger of a divorce or troubled relationship all over again. Unlike fights over alimony or property, the disputes involving child custody can continue long after the divorce papers are signed. Parents are often required to interact regularly for years until the child turns 18. This tension between the parents can increase when the parent shows up with a new boyfriend or girlfriend or shows up late.

Also purchasing goods online has become a normal part of everyday life; but exchanging goods from online transactions made on sites like Craigslist and Facebook can become a perilous endeavor, as the buyer and seller usually do not know each other.

Officers do not get involved or actively monitor the transaction, although the police parking lot has 24-hour surveillance cameras as an added backup. It is important to understand the limitations of the safe exchange zone. A safe exchange zone may be monitored by cameras but there may not be anyone there to ensure your safety if there is a fight or violence. Instead, the idea of the area being monitored and having police officials nearby can be enough to reduce the likelihood of a fight breaking out.

The goal of the Prescott Valley Police Department is to practice community policing. This service is one more effort to provide police protection to our community.