‘Secure environment:’ Nassau County introduces safe place for child custody exchanges

A new parking spot located in front of the sheriff’s office at 77151 Citizens Circle in Yulee was unveiled by Sheriff Bill Leeper as a safe location during child custody exchanges.

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The Child Custody Exchange Safe Zone provides a secure, neutral location for parents sharing custody to safely transfer their children.

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“The safety and well-being of our community’s children are paramount,” Sheriff Leeper said. “This new safe zone offers a secure environment for custody exchanges, reducing potential conflicts and ensuring peace of mind for parents during what can often be a stressful process.”

The designated parking location was opened as part of a Florida law requiring all sheriff’s offices in the state to create at least one safe exchange location. Governor Ron DeSantis signed this legislation into law in early June.

READ: Man shot during reported argument over child custody in the Ortega Farms area, JSO reports

The exchange zone is under 24/7 video surveillance and is next to the sheriff’s office and the memorial wall.

“We encourage parents and guardians to take advantage of this new resource, designed to prioritize the well-being and safety of children during custody exchanges,” the sheriff’s office said.

Action News Jax reported in June when a man was charged after biting off part of another person’s ear during a custody swap in Nassau County.

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