Cop's Corner

  • Published
  • By 31st Security Forces Squadron
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  On Jan. 5, an active duty service member entered the police services desk and reported someone had stolen property from their residence. The service member stated they discovered their basement door had been damaged and forced entry was made into the residence. Various music equipment totaling $5,000, military uniforms and gear, and an unknown amount of Nintendo video games had been stolen. The music equipment stolen included: (1) drum set, (1) bass guitar and case, (1) Mega boogie guitar amplifier, (3) microphone stands, (1) music stand, (1) box of an unknown number of amplifier and guitar cables, (2) 15-inch speakers and (2) speaker stands. The service member stated that they secured their basement door upon departing the residence for leave on Dec. 18 and returned on Jan. 5 to discover the damage and missing property. Unfortunately, vacationing presents adequate time and opportunity for the possible threat of breaking and entering. Reduce your risks of becoming a victim by enforcing several layers of defense. Prior to going on leave, conduct a quick assessment to ensure your residence is properly secured with effective locks on all doors and windows. If any locks seem worn or inadequate, replace them immediately! Also, leave the residence in a manner in which it looks occupied. A residence that presents a "lived in" appearance is one of the best deterrents. For example, have a neighbor park in your driveway or in front of your house. If possible, neighbors should check on the residence and perhaps turn on an outdoor security light in the evenings. Lights that operate on a timer or with a motion detector are best and highly recommended. Additionally, leave your contact information with a neighbor and take it upon yourself to check in periodically. By communicating frequently, any unusual or suspicious activity can be addressed immediately.

On Jan. 6, a dependent of an active duty service member entered the Police Services Desk and reported that an unknown individual stole her purse at the Marco-Polo Airport. The dependent stated that the purse was placed on the ground by their feet when an unidentified male came up to ask questions. After the male left, the dependent reached down to grab the purse and realized it was missing. The purse contained: (1) passport/Visa, (1) Social Security card, (1) military Dependent spouse ID card, state side drivers license, debit cards, checks, (1) Codice Fiscale, (2) cell phones, (1) camera, (1) Bank of Populare account card/number, (1) Military Star card, (1) set of car keys, (1) set of house keys, 60 Euro, and $200 US. With cultural diversity and variations, tourists and foreigners are typically very distinguishable in a crowd. Any semi-intelligent criminal knows that while these individuals are traveling, they are likely to be carrying valuable personal information and essential finances which makes for an appealing target. Therefore whenever traveling, maintain a heightened level of awareness. Never set down personal belongings and be weary of individuals who approach you. Many criminals have counterparts who intentionally try to distract your attention from your valuables. Be cautious and if at any point you begin to feel uncomfortable with a situation, walk away and get help if needed.

CRIME PREVENTION TIP OF THE WEEK:
One of the best and most effective tips for crime prevention has been discovered through an unconventional method-be the criminal (but only in mind and spirit). Put yourself in the shoes of a bad guy. If you were a burglar, how would you go about entering your home? Where is the residence most vulnerable or what characteristics/qualities make the weakest, easiest target? What do you do to make yourself an easy victim? Once you can accurately identify any flaws in your current security plan, it becomes easier to address any pressing safety concerns. Take the necessary actions and make proper adjustments before it becomes too late.