Operation Identification

Operation Identification is a program to discourage theft and recover stolen property in your neighborhood. It calls for the voluntary joint participation by you and your police department in identifying, marking, and listing your valuable items of property.
This effort acts as a direct deterrent to theft because stolen items bearing etched identification numbers are more difficult to sell, easily recoverable and can be linked with specific burglaries, making prosecution more likely. Not all police departments have the equipment to fulfill this program:

Five Step Program:
1. Obtain the engraving pen from your local police district's crime prevention or community relations officer.


2. Engrave your driver's license number followed by an abbreviation of Pennsylvania (PA) on all valuables. A driver's license number is best because police everywhere can use it to trace ownership almost instantly. Do not use your Social Security Number.


Example: 19-243-299 PA (Remember to add abbreviation of the state)


If you do not have a driver's license, use other numbers such as street address and zip code, auto license number, and telephone number.

3. Photograph all of your valuables, even those that you choose not to engrave (heirlooms, antiques, coin collections).


4. Compile an itemized list of all valuables (both photographed and marked). Keep this list and photographs in a secure place with other important papers. These will serve as vital reference sources in case of burglary.


5. Place the window decal and car bumper sticker declaring you are a participant in Operation Identification in obvious visible locations if you have been provided one.

Special Tips • Use only one number for the entire family.


• Mark all removable parts of the item.


• Make engraved figures large enough to be easily discernible without defacing them.


• Mark number in an obvious place on each item.