Shawnee State University Office of Security

Operation Identification

This nationwide crime prevention program helps identify property if it should be stolen. Operation Identification is a program centered upon the belief that to prevent crime we must attempt to address the elements of the crime triangle. We attempt to make property less desirable to the criminal element by marking our valuables in such a way that they can be identified, increasing the likelihood that the thief will be caught with stolen goods. By doing this we hope that the criminal will choose to go elsewhere to commit his crimes and if he does take your belongings that if caught we can identify your property, successfully prosecute the thief, and return your property to you.

 

 STAGES OF OPERATION IDENTIFICATION

 

Engrave Your Property

Inventory Your Property

Report any Theft

Engrave Your Property

Engraving your valuables with your drivers license number and your two digit state (never use your Social Security Number) will aid police agencies in identifying you as the property's owner. It may also prevent a thief from choosing to steal your belongings because they are more identifiable if they are caught with them. Even if your belongings have a serial number already, engraving your identification number will ease identifying you as its owner. Law enforcement agencies across the country have access to this number through state motor vehicle records. For all objects, even those with serial numbers, it is best to assign them a particular number. Do this by using your driver's license number and adding your two digit state to it.

Notice there are no gaps or spaces in the numbers shown.                 

" RL56565OH "

To participate in Operation Identification call the Shawnee State University Office of Security and ask about borrowing an electric engraving tool. It can be picked up at the front counter at the Office of Security. There is no charge to use the engraver, however it must be returned within forty-eight hours. If an engraver is not available, they can be purchased at any hardware store at very little expense.

What to Mark and How

For Hard Objects

For hard objects such as computers, bicycles, radios, stereos, TV's, cameras, laptops, I-pods, watches, sporting goods, and appliances use an engraving tool that can be signed out at the Safety & Security Office to mark your identification number on a conspicuous, permanent part of the item. Then engrave the number again in a less obvious place. Metal or plastic parts are best for marking a smooth legible mark.

For Un-markable Items

For unmarkable items such as jewelry, musical instruments, antiques, etc., place the object against a plain background and take several color slides from different angles. Include a ruler in the picture for scale. Label slides and keep them with the inventory record.

For Soft or Porous Objects

For soft or porous objects such as leather, fiberboard, or cloth, use a contrasting magic marker. Note: some fiberboards may be hard enough to take the engraving.

Keep a List of Your Valuables

 

Make a list of all of your valuables. Make several copies and store them in two or more secure locations, such as a safe, locked drawer or cabinet. Include on your list a full description of the item including color, make, model, year of manufacture, and any other identifiers, including any engraving.

 

Items to include on your list are personal walkmans, CD players, stereos, computers (desktop and laptop), printers and any other peripherals, telephones, televisions, radios, and any other belongings. Most electronic equipment has a serial number; anything that does not have any good identifier can be engraved. For more information, contact a SSU Security Office at 3243.

 

If you have any questions filling out your inventory or locating identifiers, please feel free to contact a Campus Security at 351-3243. 

 

Report any Stolen Items to Campus Security

If any of your belongings are stolen, notify Campus Security immediately at x3243. Reporting your loss can ease recovery. In addition, every incident is listed in our Daily Crime Log, which alerts the community when such a theft occurs.