Cop's Corner

  • Published
  • By 31st Security Forces Squadron
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  On Feb. 5, an active duty service member entered the Police Services Desk and stated an unknown individual made an unauthorized debit card transaction of $805.74 from their Wilmington Trust Bank account. The transaction was made via the internet. The individual immediately reported this transaction to their bank and cancelled their debit card. Regularly review your bank account information! There are several available ways to do so which include secure online access or monthly statements distributed through the mail. The importance of reviewing the status of your accounts is crucial in verifying your finances and credit standings. If monetary funds are discovered to be missing, banks are more likely to reallocate funds with early notification. Accordingly, by taking a few moments to evaluate your transactions, you are protecting yourself and your finances from credit fraud which is becoming increasingly more prominent. As an extra precaution, it is beneficial to maintain a record of your account numbers, their expiration dates, and the phone number and address of each company in a SECURE place. If an unexpected situation arises, the information needed to make proper notifications will be readily available.

On Feb. 19, an active duty service member entered the Police Services Desk and stated that an unknown individual stole his Navigon 2110 Max and 50 liters of gas coupons from his vehicle that was parked in front of building 1427. The vehicle was left unsecured and the items were taken from the glove box. No damage to the vehicle was reported. The glove box and center console are considered some of the "safer" places to store valuable items out of public sight when kept in your vehicles. However, on the contrary, these locations are favored among criminals  and are regularly searched first. Therefore, it is advised to only keep your GPS in your vehicle when it is actively being utilized. When you are utilizing the GPS and must leave the vehicle, develop the habit of taking the GPS with you. Most navigation systems are small enough to fit in a pocket or purse. Additionally, do not leave the support cradle in the window attracting attention to your vehicle. With the increasing frequency with which these items are reported stolen, it is encouraged to mark or engrave the GPS with a driver's license number as this can act as a deterrent to thieves. Also record the make, model and serial number of the GPS for your own records.

CRIME PREVENTION TIP OF THE WEEK:
Crime Prevention is the anticipation of a criminal act and the initiation of an action to reduce it. However, crimes incorporate several components to include ability, desire, and opportunity. As there is very little you can do about the ability or desire of a criminal to commit a crime, we can work to eliminate the opportunity. This can be accomplished by making yourself a "hard target." The general concept behind this is to present a strong, visible defense that will deter or delay an attack. One way in which this can be applied is towards your own personal appearance or the appearance of your home and community. For example, whether traveling alone or in a group, remain vigilant and project confidence. Ensure purses, wallets, and additional belongings are secured in such a way that they do not attract attention or make you a vulnerable target. The same applies to your home and community. By maintaining the physical appearance of your home you contribute to the stability of your neighborhood. Keep yards well maintained and free of personal possessions to include toys and lawn equipment. These items need to be properly secured. Utilize physical security deterrents such as locks, blinds, and exterior lighting. These measures create greater risk to commit a criminal act and thus reduce opportunity for thieves.