BAY MINETTE, Alabama — The Baldwin County Sheriff’s has established a Safe Exchange Zone in Bay Minette. The zone is electronically monitored 24 hours a day and provides a location where people can exchange and meet in a secure environment. It is located next to the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Corrections Center and across the street from the Bay Minette Police Department at the intersection of Hoyle Avenue and Third Street.

The effort is being offered to help deter fraudulent internet transactions and assist in maintaining privacy of residents. In a time where more people shop and arrange purchases on such sites as Craigslist, Facebook and etc., Sheriff Huey “Hoss” Mack saw a need to provide a location where people could feel safe when meeting someone. These locations can also be used for custodial exchanges.

Safety Exchange Zones are under video surveillance at all times. The Sheriff’s Office is not responsible for the validity of transactions, and will not be involved nor oversee, the business conducted amongst participating parties.