Cop's Corner Published May 13, 2010 31st Security Forces Squadron Aviano Air Base, Italy -- On April 29, a dependent spouse called the Emergency Communications Center and stated that an unknown individual stole their bicycle from the community center in Area 1. The dependent stated that the bicycle was left unsecure on April 23 and discovered it to be missing several days later. While it is great to assume that every individual exemplifies the core values of "Integrity first, Service before self, and Excellence in all we do," avoid becoming complacent. There are some people who will always opt for shortcuts in life to include illegally procuring the valuable possessions of others. As a result, never leave personal items unsecure for extended periods of time. Failure to secure such possessions only serves as an open invitation to thieves. Secure bicycles by locking the frame of the bike to fixed objects such as the metal frames provided in parking areas. Be sure to use sufficient locks and chains when doing so. On May 5, a dependent spouse entered the police services desk and stated that an unknown individual damaged their vehicle while parked at the Arba Day Care Center. The dependent stated the vehicle was secured, but a bag was left in plain view on the passenger seat. The vehicle was discovered with the front passenger window broken and multiple items missing. The estimated amount of stolen items was approximately $55.00. Items such as bags, purses, GPS systems, and Ipods left in plain view make easy and enticing targets. At a minimum, secure all shopping bags in the trunk of your vehicle. By stowing objects in the trunk, items are "out of sight, and out of mind." Additionally, trunks offer more protection than windows and conceal objects adequately. Be sure to remove all purchases and valuable items once you arrive at home or wherever your final destination may be. On May 9, an Army and Air Force Exchange Service loss prevention clerk called the ECC to report that an Italian national was witnessed shoplifting at the Base Exchange. The clerk observed the subject remove a 75-percent-off sticker from another item in the store and place it on the jacket. The item was then purchased at the discounted price. The responding Security Forces patrolman reviewed the store surveillance tape, revealing the clerk's statement to be accurate. A preliminary restriction of AAFES retail commissary and facility privileges letter was issued to the subject and base Carabinieri assumed control of the investigation. The AAFES Loss Prevention Program has been extremely successful in achieving their main objective of loss prevention. This is mainly due to the fact that someone is always watching and will be caught if shoplifting attempts are executed. Additionally, fellow shoppers have the responsibility to report suspicious behavior as shoplifting affects not only the store but the entire community. Police yourself and police others to ensure we are all held accountable for our actions. Crime Prevention Tip of the Week: As theft is one of the most frequently reported incidents, take extra precautions to ensure you protect your valuables. Use an engraver to mark all of your expensive items with the prefix AF and the last four of your social security number. If an engraver is not practical to use, use permanent markers or photograph the item. Keep serial numbers on file for the corresponding items in addition to the proof of purchase. Marking valuables and keeping this information on file will allow for easy identification if theft occurs. This technique has been proven to be effective in retrieving many electronic valuables.