Flint Police Warn Residents About Marketplace Meet-Ups

I’ll be honest, I always feel on edge whenever my wife and I buy or sell items on Marketplace, and rightfully so. You just never know who you’re dealing with. It’s risky when you think about it.

The Flint Police Department is reminding everyone to be careful when buying or selling things through social media marketplaces.

It might seem like no big deal to meet someone in a parking lot to grab a used bike or sell an old TV, but lately that’s been turning into trouble for some people. Well, actually, it’s been happening for quite a while, but things are getting worse and more dangerous.

Police didn’t share details but say there’ve been a few recent meet-ups that didn’t go so great. In some cases, people were straight-up robbed. Again, it just goes to show you really don’t know who you’re dealing with online..

A Safer Spot in Flint for Marketplace Meet-Ups

According to Mid-Michigan Now, police are reminding people that if you’re planning to meet someone from Facebook Marketplace or any other online site, do it the safe way. Just go over to the safe exchange area at 210 E. Fifth Street, right at the Flint Police Department. It’s a space made for Marketplace deals, with plenty of lighting, cameras watching, and officers nearby to keep things safe.

See Also: Who Qualifies for the $600M Flint Water Crisis Payments?

I had no idea this was even a thing until now, but honestly, what an awesome idea. Especially if you’re trying to sell something that’s a little more on the pricey side.

Basically, it’s the safest place in Flint to hand over cash or pick up whatever you’re buying. Sure, it might feel a little weird meeting at a police station, but it beats risking it with a stranger in a random parking lot.

It’s also a much better idea than having them come to your home. I really hope my wife is reading this and taking notes because she’s way too trusting sometimes when it comes to Marketplace meet-ups.