Hemet Police Department Issues Guidelines for Holiday E-Commerce Safety
HEMET, CA – The Hemet Police Department has issued a public advisory regarding the risks associated with the purchase of stolen property during the holiday season. Law enforcement officials state that the acquisition of stolen goods provides a profit motive for illegal activity and contributes to the frequency of theft within the community.
According to the department, individuals who knowingly purchase stolen items may be subject to criminal charges. In cases where a buyer acts in “good faith” without knowledge of an item’s origin, the property remains subject to seizure by police. In such instances, the buyer typically loses both the physical item and the funds used for the purchase. Officials also noted the potential personal safety risks involved in conducting transactions with individuals engaged in criminal activity.
To mitigate these risks, the Hemet Police Department recommends specific safety protocols for in-person transactions initiated through online marketplaces. Residents are advised to bring a companion to all meetings and to choose well-lit, public locations rather than private residences.
The department has designated the Hemet Police station lobby and the E-Commerce Exchange Zone, located near the jail lobby, as official safe exchange points. These areas are intended to provide a secure environment for the transfer of goods and currency between buyers and sellers. The advisory concludes by encouraging the public to prioritize these safety measures to ensure a lawful holiday season.
