Ocoee Police Department hosting holiday safety initiatives

The Ocoee Police Department has enacted its annual holiday crime-prevention initiatives.

The first safety initiative is the police department’s Safe Exchange Zone. Residents, consumers and travelers can utilize the Safe Exchange Zone at the parking lot of Ocoee Police Department — located at 646 Ocoee Commerce Parkway — for internet and e-commerce purchases or exchanges. Two parking spots marked by signage are designated for the Safe Exchange Zone, which can also be used to transfer custody of children from one parent to another as part of custody arrangements.

Operation Porch Pirate is the second holiday safety initiative enacted by the police department. Ocoee residents who frequent online retailers can have their items delivered to the Ocoee Police Department. Packages can then be picked up by the individual whom the package is addressed upon presentation of identification.

Operation Safe Disposal is intended for the disposal of boxes and packaging for high-value items like televisions, video game consoles, computers, jewelry and other items. Designated drop-off locations are available the property on Bushy Creek Court, which is south of the Ocoee Police Department Headquarters, and at Vignetti Park; 1901 Adair St.

The fourth holiday safety initiative is Operation ID. The police department loans residents engrave tags that can be placed on property such as bicycles, machinery, lawn equipment or other items. Residents can etch their drivers license number, address, phone number or other identifying information onto the engrave tag to help officers identify ownership of abandoned or stolen items.