Tips to Recovering Your Stolen Items
According to the National Pawnbrokers Association, less than one half of one percent of all pawned merchandise is identified as stolen. Pawnbrokers are regulated by various local, state and federal laws, and they work closely with law enforcement officials to report all items taken in. Pawnbrokers also require customers' identification and keep fingerprinting records. All of these things make pawn shops a very bad place to sell stolen items.
Many victims of theft don't look in the right places to find their stolen items. Many places where stolen items may end up are:
- eBay
- Craigslist
- Flea Markets
- Wholesale Jewelry Buyers
- Custom Jewelry Manufacturers
- Collectible Stores
- Gold/Silver Buyers
- Repair Centers
- Used Appliance/TV Stores
- Police Property/Recovery/Evidence Rooms
- Used Sporting Goods
- Gun Dealers
- Consignment Auction Houses
- Second Hand Stores
- Antique Shops
If you are a victim of theft, you should take the following steps:
- Notify local law enforcement and the appropriate insurance agency to file a report immediately.
- Have accurate descriptions and information about the stolen items. See the list of useful information to record below.
- Provide receipts and photos of your items.
- Write down a description of the item (color, materials, components)
- Record the Model Number
- Record the Serial Number
- Record the Date the item was purchased
- Record the Original Price of the item
- If the item doesn't have a serial number, create one in an inconspicuous area and record it
- Take photos or video of the item
- Note any distinguishing features of your item (scratches, markings, etc.)
- Keep receipts
Law enforcement agencies across the country agree - having complete and accurate descriptions of missing property greatly helps in tracking down stolen items.
Here are important preventative steps you can take to facilitate recovery of your items:
Click to share thisClick to share this