With more people online shopping, requiring face-to-face encounters for transactions, an Internet Purchase Exchange Zone in St. John Parish has been set up.

St. John Sheriff Mike Tregre announced the location is the parking lot of Dunkin’ Donuts, 1334 W. Airline Highway in LaPlace.

Tregre recently met with Dunkin’ Donuts management to arrange for a designated Internet Purchase Exchange Zone, where Internet users can buy and sell items in a safe public place with 24 hour surveillance cameras for the security of buyers and sellers.

Residents are warned criminal activity is possible for those who participate in Internet transactions that involve meeting up in person.

Sheriff’s Office authorities ask St. John the Baptist Parish resident not to meet strangers at homes or in other unfamiliar areas.