Operation Identification
Operation Identification is a citizen’s burglary prevention program for use in homes and businesses. The Operation ID program involves marking property with an identifying number as a means of discouraging burglary and theft. It also provides police with a way to identify property should it be stolen and recovered. In communities where it has been properly implemented, Operation ID has shown dramatic results in burglary reduction.
- Makes Operation Identification so Effective?
Marked property is difficult for a burglar to dispose of, and it can be traced to the rightful owner. If a burglar possesses marked stolen property, it is solid evidence for prosecution of possession of stolen goods.
After marking your property, make a list of your valuables, and keep a copy of the list in a safe place like a safety deposit box, on a computer, or on a flash drive. If you should become a burglary victim, you will be able to quickly provide the stolen property inventory with the identifiers. This will greatly assist the police in recovering your stolen property.
Once your property has been marked and a list made, display the Operation Identification sticker on doors and windows that could be used to force entry. By advertising your participation in Operation Identification, you are announcing that your valuable property has been marked and will be difficult for a burglar to sell.
Operation ID has Two Basic Components.
- Engrave your valuables with your driver's license number so your property can be easily traced and identified as yours. Please note - If your driver's license is your social security number, we strongly recommend you
- Do not use your social security number
- Obtain a SC Identification Card from the DMV, which has a generic number and does not expire
- One location easily seen
- One location not easily seen or hidden
- Display the Operation Identification sticker in your home or business door and windows showing the potential burglars your property is marked. Often, this will deter a burglar from your home/business. Electric engravers can be purchased at a local hardware stores, or can be borrowed at your closest HCPD precinct. Mark These Possessions These items listed below are the most commonly stolen items from homes, businesses, and vehicles.
- Guns
- Laptop Computers
- GPS
- Jewelry
- Digital Cameras
- Lawn Mowers and landscaping equipment
- Car audio equipment
- Camcorder or video recording devices
- DVD / Blue Ray Players
- Golf clubs and equipment
- Guitars and musical equipment
- ATV’s
- Stereo Equipment
- Cellular Phones
- Tools (power and hand)
- Household Appliances (Refrigerator, Washer, Dryer, Stove, Microwave)
- Fishing Rods, reels, and equipment