Operation Identification Program
What is the Identification Program?

The Identification Program has proven to be very effective. All of your easily stolen valuables are marked so that they can be identified as yours.
The idea is based on the fact that marked valuables are very hard for the burglar to dispose of, and they can be traced back to you. In addition, if the burglar is caught with them in his possession, the marked valuables constitute solid evidence of possession of stolen goods.
The marking you should use is your College ID Number. This number is part of your college record and will identify ownership of lost, found, or stolen property.
 

Why Should I have My Valuables Marked?

No one is immune to theft. However, participation in the Identification Program reduces the chance of theft because stolen items are much more difficult to dispose of it 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 thirty minutes of your time and could save you much time, trouble, and expense.

How Do I Participate in the Program?

Residential Units

You may bring your property and mark it at the Living Unit Office, or you may borrow a marker and use it in your room. An ID card will have to be left as a deposit. When you have finished marking your property, turn in your Personal Property Record and your card will be returned to you.

Downtown Students

You may mark your property at the University Police Department or borrow the tool from the Department. A SUNY Oneonta ID card must be left as a deposit. When you have finished marking your property, turn in your Personal Property Record and your card will be returned to you.

What Should I Have Marked?

You should have any easily stolen property marked. Some examples are:

  • Television sets
  • Stereo Equipment
  • Radios
  • Cameras
  • Auto Tape Decks
  • Binoculars
  • Sporting Goods
  • Boat Motors
  • Watches/Clocks
  • Mag Wheels
  • Computers
  • Appliances
  • Hub Cabs
  • Sports Equipment
  • Typewriters
  • Bicycles
  • Tape Recorders
  • Vacuum Cleaners
  • Tools
  • Calculators
  • Office Equipment

 

Now That My Property Is Marked, What Else Can I Do?

As stated elsewhere in this article, no one is immune to theft. But by participating in the Identification Program you have lessened the possibility of suffering a burglary. You can do more if you will:

  • Report promptly any loss, theft, or damage of your property to the University Police Department.
  • Report promptly any unusual activities, suspicious persons or vehicles, and criminal activity to the University Police Department.
  • Keep your apartment or living unit doors locked at all times and make certain they are locked whenever you leave.
  • Keep valuables stored as securely as possible. Articles plainly visible or left unattended in vehicles or rooms are an open invitation to thieves and vandals.


For more information about other crime prevention programs contact:

UNIVERSITY POLICE
(607)436-3550
College at Oneonta
Oneonta, NY 13820

Crime prevention is everybody's responsibility!