Cop's Corner

  • Published
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Aug. 6: An active duty military member was detained by AAFES Loss Prevention for shoplifting. The member approached the Burger King counter and requested a cup for water. They then walked across the food court and consciously filled it up with a soda instead. Another one thought they could slip one by the AAFES Loss Prevention team. Their eyes are not limited to the BX; they also monitor the food court and parking lots. This member probably thought they were really smooth grabbing themselves a free soda. However, now they will be facing a $200 fine under the Civil Recovery Act and be barred from all AAFES, DECA, MWR and Services facilities. Not to mention the significant damage to their career.

Aug. 12: An active duty military member reported their vehicle window had been broken and their wallet had been stolen. The vehicle was parked near Lake Barcis and was left unattended for more than two hours. The stolen wallet contained credit cards, a checkbook, Codice Fiscale, a HAZMAT certified card and $11. This is the most common crime committed in our community. The worst part about it is that it is 100% preventable. We've done everything we can think of to spread the word: DO NOT leave your valuables in your vehicles. You're just making yourself a victim. Help spread the word, and tell your friends!

Aug. 13: An Aviano family member reported their credit card had a fraudulent charge of $500. The last time that they saw the credit card was three months ago. They did not notice that it was missing until one month ago. Keep close tabs on your credit cards. If they go missing, report them lost and deactivate them.

It's a close call this week for the Aviano All Star Award. Truth is these were all very preventable and lacking common sense events. However after a long debate, we've decided to give the award to the member who lost their credit card, yet did nothing to report or cancel the card. Don't let this happen to you! If that card goes missing, your first call should be to cancel it! Don't wait, do it immediately!

We're doing great again Aviano! All things considered this was a pretty uneventful week. Please continue to keep yourself protected from crime! The vast majority of the crimes in our area are 100 percent preventable. All it takes is a little bit of time to evaluate your actions and think about making smart choices. Always lock your house doors, even if they are on a 'latch' as most of the European doors are. Just because the handle doesn't move on the outside, doesn't mean the door is locked. Lock it with your key and you'll be protected!