Cop's Corner Published March 26, 2010 31st Security Forces Squadron AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- Through the past week there have been many reports of lost ID cards. Obtaining a new ID card is an extensive process. First, you must proceed to the Police Services Desk to see if anyone has returned the card. If not, you must complete a statement with Security Forces. The Police Services Desk will then give you a signed letter which you must take to your First Sergeant or commander to sign. This letter is required for obtaining a new ID card from the MPF. In order to gain access to the installation during this process you must be escorted by a DOD card holder. To avoid this hassle secure you ID card. If you make the habit of always securing you ID card in your wallet then you will be less likely to lose it. On March 16, a military dependent called the Emergency Communications Center and stated their residence in Pordenone had been vandalized. Upon arrival of Security Forces the individual stated markings were found on the left driveway gate post that resembled a dollar sign and were similar to a marking on the right side driveway gate posts, which was discovered in February. Reporting these markings may save your home from being broken into. It is important for host nation police and Security Forces to be aware of such incidents so preventative measures can be taken. On March 16, an Army and Air Force Exchange Service Loss Prevention clerk called the Emergency Communication Center to report a shoplifting at the Base Exchange. Further investigation revealed the suspect took a green shirt into the changing room and hid it under their clothes. Once a simple frisk was conducted of the subject and nothing was found Security Forces reviewed the security tapes. The tapes revealed the subject hid the item in the AAFES security manager's office while waiting on Security Forces' arrival. This incident is described as theft and the subject's AAFES privileges have been subsequently revoked until further notice. If the subject enters any AAFES establishment, a subsequent charge of trespassing may apply. Theft is a crime and may be prosecuted under the U.S. and Italian laws. On March 16, an active duty service member called the Emergency Communication Center and reported the side window of their vehicle was shattered and multiple items were stolen. The caller stated prior to the incident, the vehicle was secure and all items were hidden inside. Always park you vehicle in an area that has plenty of lighting. Try to park you vehicle in an area that has many other vehicles or people. Consider placing stickers on the windows that advertise a security alarm, but keep in mind actually having one installed may be much more effective. Crime prevention tip of the week: A large majority of crime in the Aviano community is theft from vehicles. The majority of the time the vehicles will become damaged during the theft. Five tips to avoid becoming a victim: 1. Keep your spare keys in your wallet, not in your car. 2. Invest in a good anti theft device. 3. Close windows and lock doors. Take your possessions with you. 4. Avoid parking behind fences or hedges. 5. At home, light your driveway all night or park in well lit areas.