Tips on Recovering Property

Contributed by Lee Jackson, Evidence/Property Technician

The holidays have come and gone, leaving with us a grim reminder of how tenacious criminals can be at robbing us of what we've worked for all year long. But the holidays can also be a useful reminder to protect our property throughout the year.

Everyone should do themselves a favor by taking inventory of their property. The inventory list should consist of the make, model, serial number, color and size of each item.

One of the best ways of insuring the accuracy of your inventory is to videotape it. So while you are taping a family celebration, also videotape your property especially jewelry or small "one of kind" items that can be difficult to describe in words. This will help both you and law enforcement officials identify your property. If you don't have a video camera, take still pictures because, it is true that a picture is worth a thousand words. Remember, during the traumatic time following a robbery, your memory may be in a state of shock. It will be much easier on you if you have a videotape or pictures available to help you remember what is missing.