LOSS & RECOVERY

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"My stuff was stolen. What do I do?"
When most of us experience a theft, it is something that we are not prepared to deal with. This section will give you a step-by-step process to follow to make this difficult situation a little easier.  It will also provide information about the recovery process and what you can do to protect yourself.

 

The Facts

The most important thing you can do is be prepared. Keep a list of model and serial numbers for your expensive items. This information is extremely helpful to law enforcement. Even if you are missing information, provide what you have to the police and get the process started.

When a second hand dealer purchases an item from an individual we collect information from their drivers license or ID card and provide an individual item description to the local law enforcement agency. The police review this information and compare it to reports of thefts.

Dealers in second hand goods can share with you whether or not they have bought an item similar to yours. If you learn that a dealer bought an item similar to yours, just contact the law enforcement agency you filed your crime report with and let them know where to look.

The dealer should not let you see the item, nor should they provide you with information about the person they bought it from... that is a matter for law enforcement to handle.

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How to Recover Your Stolen Property

THE MOMENT YOU DISCOVER YOUR LOSS FOLLOW THESE STEPS:

1. Make a list of the items taken. You won’t always have all the information available, but if possible include the manufacturer’s name, model number, serial number and any identifying marks you may have put on the item(s).

2. Contact the law enforcement agency in your area. Tell them about your loss and follow their procedure to create a crime report. Provide as much information as you can about the items taken, the approximate time of the theft, and any persons that you suspect of the theft. Share even little details or suspicions... you never know which detail might be important.

3. Share copies of your list with local dealers in second hand goods. Make sure your list has your name, phone number, and the crime report number on it. Let the dealers know that these goods have been stolen, and if they see any of the items brought into their store they should call 911 immediately.

It is important to know that all pawn shops and second hand dealers are licensed and regulated. To protect that license you will find that they will be very cooperative with you and with law enforcement. These dealers are required by law to hold items they have purchased for 21-30 days, depending on jurisdiction.

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What Else Can You Do?

One of the most important things you can do when law enforcement recovers your items is to actively and aggressively pursue the prosecution and conviction of the person who stole from you.

It will take strength, courage, and time to do this, but is our duty as free citizens to protect our neighbors and our community from persons who will steal.

It does make a difference! Even if your loss occurred a few days ago, if a dealer bought your goods, they are safe.

Clackamas County Sheriff [Non-Emergency]: 503-655-8218

 

Portland Police Bureau [Non-Emergency]: 503-823-3333