Cop's Corner Published April 7, 2010 Aviano Air Base, Italy -- On March 26, an active-duty servicemember entered the Police Services Desk and stated their vehicle's window was shattered by an unknown person(s). A Motorola Bluetooth ear piece, three Euros worth of car wash tokens and 80 liters worth of gas coupons were stolen. The member stated they secured their vehicle at 7 p.m. and discovered the damage and stolen property one hour and 30 minutes later. This type of crime is the most common here in Aviano. Some preventative measures to prevent this from happening to you include installing a security alarm in your vehicle, displaying security alarm stickers on your windows, and parking in well lit areas. Also consider taking all valuables with you to avoid becoming a victim. On April 1, an active-duty servicemember entered the Police Services Desk and stated that an unknown person(s) stole one set of chrome vehicle rims from their residence. The rims were further described as "5 spoke size 18". The member stated they did not secure the property and had left them in front of the home. The member was notified the next day at work at that the rims were missing. Secure your valuables inside if possible. Storage sheds that lock are a good way to secure large outdoor valuables. On April 3, a dependent called the Emergency Communications Center (ECC) to report a larceny/damage to private property. The dependent stated that they discovered the rear passenger side window of their vehicle shattered. The dependent stated that the following property was missing: one black purse with wallet containing the following items; six credit cards, a checkbook, 115 Euros and $25, AFI drivers license, two passports (one with Visa), stateside drivers license, Codice Fiscale and Soggiorno. The dependent stated their vehicle was last seen undamaged at 10:15 a.m. The dependent also stated that the purse was left in plain sight. Try not to leave valuables in your vehicle if possible. If you cannot bring them with you do not leave them in plain sight. Don't hide items under your seats. Experienced thieves know that this is a hiding area and will investigate it. Secure items in your vehicle where you cannot look through the windows and see them. On April 3, an active-duty servicemember called the ECC and stated they were pick pocketed at a concert. The member stated their wallet was stolen containing the following items: active duty identification card, U.S. Forces Europe Ration Card, Aviano Air Base flightline drivers license, Government driver's license, Debit MasterCard, stateside driver license and Italian Codice Fiscale. The member stated they had their wallet in their back pocket during a concert in Munich, Germany. Securing your wallet in a front pocket can prevent you from being a victim. Using a wallet that hangs from your neck and tucking it in your shirt is another way to avoid being a victim of pick pocketing. Crime prevention tip of the week Last week there were three lost military ID cards. In 2010, there have been 26 lost military ID cards. This does not include all of the ID cards that were stolen. There have also been four lost restricted area badges. In 2009 there were 166 lost military ID cars and 10 lost restricted area badges. Losing your ID card puts you at risk for identity theft. On your military ID card is your full name, service branch, rank, date of birth and full social security number. This is enough information to become victim to identity theft. Military ID cards can also be beneficial to terrorist operations. Terrorist may use them for attempts to gain unauthorized access to a military installation. Protect yourself and the Air Force by keeping positive control of your military ID card at all times.