The solution is using the sheriff's office as a meeting place to complete these transactions, Sheriff Wes Tripp said.

He said the sheriff's office may also be used for child custody transfers. Advance notice is preferred.

“The Halifax County Sheriff’s Office is inviting the public that is engaged in civil transactions to conduct them at the sheriff's office, where they have a public parking lot being video-recorded, a consistent law enforcement presence and even the ability for a deputy sheriff to witness a transaction in the office,” the sheriff said in a statement.

A notary is also available in the sheriff’s office.

Tripp said the invitation is in response to several fraud and murder crimes across the United States related to these transactions. “Web-oriented transactions, not limited to Craigslist, have increased through the years. Offenders have managed to incorporate scams, robberies, and even murder through on-line sites. We wish to enhance public safety by encouraging the use of our facility.”

Halifax County has not experienced assaults relating to meeting strangers for an on-line transactions, however, Tripp said, “We strongly recommend taking precautions. Always be aware of your surroundings and please report any suspicious activity relating to on-line sales.”

Arrangements may be made by calling the sheriff's office at 252-583-8201.