Operation Identification

What is Operation Identification?

No one is immune to theft. However, participation in Operation Identification Program reduces the chance of theft because stolen items are much more difficult to dispose of if they have been marked. Burglars know this and are hesitant to enter residences that participate in an identification program. If marked items are stolen and recovered, it is very easy to identify the rightful owners and return the property to them. Participation in this program will cost only your time and it could save you much time, trouble, and expense.

Operation Identification (OP ID) is a citizen's burglary prevention program for use in the home. The OP ID program involves the marking of property with an identifying number as a means of discouraging burglary and theft. In communities where it has been properly implemented, OP ID has shown dramatic results in its ability to reduce burglaries.

What makes Operation Identification so effective?

Marked property is difficult for a burglar to dispose of or resell. It can be traced to the rightful owner with relative ease. And, if the burglar is caught with marked property, it is solid evidence 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. If you should become a burglary victim, you will be able to quickly describe the stolen property from the list. This will be of great help to the police in the attempts to recover the stolen possessions.

Once property has been marked and a list made, display the OP ID sticker on doors and windows which could be used for entry. By advertising your participation in OP ID this way, you are announcing that your valuable property has been marked and that it will be difficult for the burglar to resell. Often the presence of the sticker alone is enough to deter a burglar.

Burglary is the most frequently committed crime in the United States. By participating in OP ID, you are taking one important step to protect your possessions from burglary and theft. There are many other crime prevention anti-burglary precautions you can take to protect your home, property, business, and family.

The Delano Police Department offers engraver rentals at no charge and Operation Identification decals for your doors and windows. If you already have an engraver all you need is to mark your items and make a list of everything you have marked, remember to keep this list in a safe place. For further information contact the Delano Police Department at 661-721-3377.

Operation Identification personal property inventory form

Some Possessions You Should Mark

Answering machines Fishing rods / reels Radios
Bicycles Golf Clubs Stereos
Binoculars Lawn mowers Hand / power tools
Cameras Mag wheels Televisions
CB radios Microwaves Vacuum cleaners
Cell phones Musical instruments DVD players
Computers    

Quick Facts About Operation Identification

  • Operation ID helps deter burglars by using a specific number to mark your property.
  • Participation in Operation ID is simple. Engrave your specific number on your property. If your property is stolen and the police recover it, you will be able to easily identify your property.
  • Operation ID decals for your doors and windows are available from the Delano Police Department.
  • Burglars know that if they are caught with the marked property it can be used against them in court. Also, pawn shops will not accept marked property because they know these items may be stolen.