07/24/2025
Check out this awesome initiative for the Warren Community!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Warren, PA – July 22, 2025 – The City of Warren is proud to announce the establishment of a new "Safe Exchange Zone," providing residents with a secure and monitored location for child custody exchanges and online transactions. This initiative, a collaborative effort between the Warren Police Department and City Council, aims to enhance safety and peace of mind for the community.
The Safe Exchange Zone is located behind the City Building, near the Warren Area Student Union. The area is under continuous surveillance, offering a secure environment for sensitive exchanges.
"The idea for a Safe Exchange Zone came from Sergeant Joe Bees, who approached me with this valuable concept," said City Council Member Phil Gilbert. "I then presented it to City Manager Mike Holtz, and from there, our dedicated city staff, with the crucial support of Police Chief Joe Sproveri and Sergeant Bees, worked diligently to make this a reality. This is a fantastic example of how collaboration between our police department and city government can directly benefit our residents."
The Safe Exchange Zone provides a designated, monitored location for:
• Child Custody Exchanges: Offering a neutral and secure meeting point for parents, reducing potential stress and conflict during custody transfers.
• Online Purchase Transactions: Providing a safe alternative to meeting strangers at private residences, allowing individuals to complete online sales or purchases with greater confidence.
This new resource underscores the City of Warren's commitment to public safety and its proactive approach to addressing community needs. Residents are encouraged to utilize this secure location for their exchanges.
