Cop's Corner

  • Published
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  On March 13, an active-duty servicemember from Ramstein Air Base, Germany, contacted the Emergency Communications Center and reported theft while at Lake Barcis in Italy. The member reported the stolen backpack had one dependent identification card, three tourist passports, three credit cards, 200 Euro cash and medications. The member tried to locate the backpack but was unsuccessful. Keep all valuables in a safe location and only travel with necessary items. If possible, leave excess valuables at home or with a friend for safekeeping.

On March 15, an Army and Air Force Exchange Service Loss Prevention clerk called the Emergency Communication Center to file a report of shoplifting at the Base Exchange. Further investigation revealed the subject had removed multiple discount stickers from items within the store, placed them on non-discounted items and purchased the items for the discounted price. 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, 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 servicemember entered the Police Services Desk and to file a report of assault and personal property theft while traveling throughout Prague, Czech Republic. While attempting to enter a taxi, the subject was physically assaulted and robbed of his cellular phone and wallet. When traveling throughout Europe, it is advisable to travel with a wingman at all times. In this case, the subject was waiting for a taxi while the wingman ran to find an automated teller machine. In the time it took to withdraw a few Koruny, the assault and subsequent robbery took place. Remember, the aggressor always has the advantage. Remain vigilant and ready to defend yourself or your wingman at all times.

Crime prevention tip of the week:

Maintaining positive control of all personal documents is important. While fraud and identity theft are very common crimes, they are also very easy to prevent. While traveling, keep official documents with you. For example, use a wallet that hangs from around the neck. Doing this will reduce the chances of forgetting them. Also, tucking the wallet in the shirt prevents pick-pocketing. The main thing to remember is, never leave anything unattended if possible. Don't store or leave these documents in the car on in the hotel room. Maintain positive control of identification cards, passports, debit or credit cards and checkbooks at all times.