The University Apartments community is in a constant state of flow, with new residents moving in and established residents moving on nearly every week. The former are often looking to furnish their new apartments and acquire a vast array of household items. The latter may be looking to trim their belongings to fit into a smaller, less expensive moving truck. Both groups frequently rely on the same sources to do so – online sites like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and others.
Meeting an unknown buyer or seller has inherent risk. We often arrive either with a pocketful of cash or a valuable item in hand. Unscrupulous operators may try to take advantage of these situations by engaging in fraud, or worse, outright theft or robbery.
To help ease concerns and help make transactions safer, the Wisconsin Crime Prevention Practitioners Association recently designated the University Apartments Community Center as an official Internet Purchase Exchange Location (IPEL).
What does that mean?
For one thing, signs are now posted inside and outside the Community Center, notifying the public that they can meet others more safely for transactions. And, as the signs indicate, each location is under direct video surveillance 24 hours a day, for added security.
Anyone buying or selling an item from a stranger can now offer the IPEL as a meeting spot for their transaction. If the Community Center is not convenient, local police stations can be a suitable alternative. If the other party refuses any of those suggestions, be suspicious and reconsider the deal.
ONE NOTE: The IPEL should not be used as a delivery destination for online purchases. Community Center staff cannot accept packages for residents. Continue to have your packages sent to your apartment or, better yet, to a secure drop box like the Amazon facility in Sellery Residence Hall.
Jeff Kirchman
University Apartments Community Police Officer
608-264-2677 | jkirchman@wisc.edu
University Apartments Community Center, Room 131