The citizens of Newport News who buy and sell items online may now conduct their transaction at the Newport News Police Department Headquarters located at: 9710 Jefferson Avenue, Newport News, VA 23605.
For your convenience, we have designated two parking spaces in front of the building to conduct your safe exchange. The spaces have 24-hour video surveillance. Transactions should be made between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Large, cumbersome household items, i.e. appliances are not allowed. And, of course, the exchange of any contraband, stolen property or other illegal items is prohibited. Remember all transactions are being recorded.
The majority of Craigslist users, Trash & Treasure users and others selling items online are trustworthy and well-meaning. Nevertheless, please take the same common sense precautions online as you would offline.
When meeting someone to make an exchange, please remember to:
• Insist on a public meeting place like a cafe, bank, or shopping center, or our Headquarters building.
• Do not meet in a secluded place, or invite strangers into your home.
• Be especially careful buying/selling high value items.
• Tell a friend or family member where you're going.
• Take your cellphone with you, if you have one.
• Consider having a friend accompany you.
• Try to conduct your transaction in the daytime.
• Only carry the cash you need for the transaction.
• Trust your instincts.
Please keep in mind that neither the City of Newport News nor the Newport News Police Department is in any way a party to any transaction that may be conducted between private citizens. We do not assume responsibility or liability, whatsoever, for any loss, damage, injury, or other consequence from a citizen conducting a private transaction on NNPD Headquarters property. No member of the City or Police Department will guarantee, ensure, insure, safeguard, or otherwise participate in such transactions. We also can’t guarantee that a police officer will be on the property at all times.