Hermiston police set up safe zone for online buyers, sellers

By Griffin Beach on Wednesday, August 5th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories

HERMISTON – The Hermiston Police Department has designated an E-Commerce Exchange Zone in front of its headquarters at 330 S. First St.

Officials say that area is a well-lit, highly visible location monitored by 24/7 video recording. This provides for a safe place for meetups for anyone buying or selling on online marketplaces such as Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist.

Hermiston police offer the following tips anytime you meet up with someone to complete an online transaction:

Meet in a public place.
Bring only the agreed-upon amount of cash or use secure electronic payment.
Never invite strangers to your home.
Trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, walk away.

File photo of Hermiston Police Department building.