 Operation Identification
What is Operation Identification? A program to prevent theft and burglary by the identification
of valuables and notifying potential thieves that this action has been taken.
How Does This Prevent Theft?
You will be given decals to place on your doors and windows serving notice that your valuables are marked for
identification with any law enforcement agency. This notice is the primary factor in preventing burglaries. If a marked item
was stolen, it would be most difficult to trade or sell, and would be direct evidence against the thief, if found in his
possession.
How are the Items to be Identified?
Engrave the number assigned to you by the police department into your valuable items. Be sure to use
all the letters and numbers. Ownership of any marked items can be easily traced by law enforcement agencies throughout the nation.
This number will not change and is coded to be used within the National Crime Information Center System.
How do I Use the Engraving Tool?
The engraver will mark on most anything. Practice on something of no value. Hold it upright and use slow,
smooth strokes. Mark your possessions as soon as possible (NO PERSON WILL BE PERMITTED TO KEEP THE ENGRAVER MORE THAN THREE DAYS
AS OTHERS MUST USE THE SAME ENGRAVER.)
What is the Restration Form?
This form is provided for you to record the items marked and where the markings are placed on the property so
that you may readily identify the items as being yours, should they be recovered by the police. KEEP THIS LIST IN A SAFE PLACE such
as a safety deposit box or a fireproof safe.
What Property Should I Mark?
The following types of objects are frequently stolen in residential burglaries:
| VCR / DVD players |
Cameras |
| Lawn equipment & accessories |
Tools (especially power tools) |
| Stereo equipment in vehicles |
Television sets |
| Portable electronic equipment |
Stereos/radios |
| Jewelry (your jeweler will mark small items) |
Musical instruments |
| Office equipment-Computer |
Bicycle |
| Sporting goods (golf clubs, firearms, skis, binoculars, etc) |
Outboard motors |
| Of course, you may identify any other items of value you desire. |
Where do I Mark the Items?
Mark on the bottom or back; any location that will not show or destroy the value of the item. Mark bicycles on
the front of the frame above the front wheel. Use clear nail polish to keep it from rusting. Bicycles are one of the most
frequently stolen items in Prior Lake. Your cooperation in marking your family's bicycles will greatly aid your police department
in returning stolen bicycles.
How do I Obtain the Decals?
After marking your property with your assigned number, the list will be reviewed by a Crime Prevention Officer
at the police department. At this time the decals will be issued. (Appointment required) These should be placed in a prominent
place (front door, back door, & front window). These decals are designed for outside use.
You can be of further assistance to your police department by reporting ANY information you
may have of ANY crime or suspected crime. Simply call 9-1-1 if a crime is occurring, 445-1411 (dispatch) to report
information, or during business hours call our office at 440-3555 (M - F 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.). You are helping yourself and your community
when you help your police department.
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