Operation ID: Tracking and identifying valuables Published June 8, 2011 By Airman 1st Class Jose L. Hernandez Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- School is out and summertime is rapidly approaching, bringing Air Force Global Strike Command's residents here out from the shadows of winter and into the long-awaited warming temperatures of the outside environment. Yet, as more people are out and about enjoying activities, it's important they continue to remain alert and cautious of their surroundings. Looking out for suspicious activity is essential for maintaining overall base security, especially with the base currently in Force Protection Condition Bravo. According to the 5th Security Forces Squadron reports and analysis manager, Mark Mittelstadt, there is a rise in crime during the summertime, among them being thefts. One program, designed to track and identify valuable items, is Operation ID, run by 5th SFS police services. Senior Airman Lee Kozokas, 5th SFS crime prevention officer, said the program is a good way to register valuables so they can be tracked down if stolen. "People can come in and request their property get a sticker placed on it stating it's registered under Operation ID," said Airman Kozokas. "We register the property with a specific identification number and keep it on file." He said the warning sticker also acts to deter criminals from stealing the property, given the label clearly states it can be identifiable through appropriate means. "It's a simple additional measure for security," said Airman Kozokas. "The more the base populous knows about Operation ID, the easier it can be for law enforcement officers to identify serial numbers, track property, and report it back to the owners." He added if items do not have a serial number, then documentation through pictures is their best bet for maintaining a record of valuables. Tech. Sgt. Roger Butler, 5th SFS NCOIC of police services, said many times base residents feel a false sense of security when living in military housing because they are at a military installation, but stressed that crime and theft can occur anywhere, regardless of location. "In the summer we notice more windows rolled down in the vehicles, doors left unlocked, bikes left out in the open and various others items left unattended," said Sergeant Butler. "If the opportunity presents itself, then some will just not resist the temptation to steal." Sergeant Butler stressed the necessity for base residents to turn on their porch lights during the hours of darkness to help reduce criminal activity at night. "Criminals want to stay hidden and go from shadow to shadow seeking unlit areas," said Sergeant Butler. "If people utilize their porch lights, it illuminates neighborhoods and can deter criminals." Sergeant Butler explained they do their best to increase patrols around base housing during the summer to ensure overall base security. One main function of police services is to increase direction of patrols on base and send them out to where they are needed most, based on crime trends. Specifically, there has been a noticeable increase in items stolen at the McAdoo Sports and Fitness Center here. Locking valuables with a security device or placing valuables in the trunk of a car is the best way to keep valuables secure said Michael T. Berglund, 5th SFS lead detective. He also explained one of the most effective ways for reducing crime involves good interaction amongst community members. "A lot of people don't think about the importance of interacting with neighbors," said Mr. Berglund. "People in housing usually know the routines of day-to-day activities going on, and whenever there is something out of the ordinary, they are usually able to tell." He recommended neighbors give themselves permission to intervene if they see something unusual around each other's house. "It's really important we all be very aware of our surroundings and what is going on around us at all times," said Mr. Berglund. Residents who are interested in registering valuables as part of the Operation ID program can contact the 5th SFS crime prevention division at 723-4434. Also, for those who would like to provide an anonymous tip involving possible criminal activity, contact the crimestop hotline at 852-7463 or the law enforcement desk at 723-3096.