Lake Zurich police parking lot

Lake Zurich police officials say they are inviting online buyers and sellers of merchandise to make deals in the department's parking lot. Police said news stories about buyers and sellers being robbed or even killed illustrates the risks when dealing with strangers. Anyone wanting to buy or sell merchandise with strangers may meet in the lot at 200 Mohawk Trail to exchange the products and money. "Though online marketplaces such as Craigslist prove that an overwhelming majority of its users are trustworthy and well-intentioned, criminal activity does occasionally occur," Lake Zurich Police Chief Steve Husak said. "By providing a 24/7 safe spot for the exchanges, we hope to deter any criminal activity by the seller and/or buyer to help our residents feel and remain safe." The police lot is well-lighted and under 24-hour video surveillance. Police officers are also coming and going at all times of the day and night.