Please call Carol Bolick at (623) 930-2571 to obtain further instructions and to find out how this program could benefit you.

Operation Identification FAQ's

What is Operation Identification?
A program to prevent theft and burglary by the identification of valuables and notifying potential thieves that this action has been taken.

How does this prevent theft?
You will be given decals to place on your doors and windows serving notice that your valuables are marked for identification with any law enforcement agency. This notice is the primary factor in preventing burglaries. If a marked item was stolen, it would be most difficult to trade or sell, and would be direct evidence against the thief, if found in his possession.

How are the Items to be identified?
Engrave your driver’s license number on your valuable items. Be sure to use all the letters and numbers. Ownership of any marked items can be easily traced by law enforcement agencies throughout the nation.

How do I use the engraving tool?
The engraver will mark on most anything. Practice on something of no value. Hold it upright and use slow, smooth strokes. Mark your possessions as soon as possible.

Where & how do I keep the information on my valuables?
We encourage you to record the items marked and where the markings are placed on the property so that you may readily identify the items as being yours, should they be recovered by the police. KEEP THIS LIST IN A SAFE PLACE such as a safety deposit box or a fireproof safe.

What property should I mark?
The following types of objects are frequently stolen in residential burglaries:

• TV’s, VCR/DVD players
• Lawn Equipment & accessories
• Stereo/radio equipment
• Office equipment/ Computers
• Sporting goods (golf clubs, firearms, skis, binoculars, etc.)
• Cameras/video recorders
• Tools (primarily power tools)
• Musical instruments
• Bicycles

Where do I mark the items?
Mark on the bottom or back; any location that will not show or destroy the value of the item. Mark bicycles on the front of the frame above the front wheel. Use clear nail polish to keep it from rusting.

Where do I get an engraver?
Small engravers can be purchased at your local home-improvement store or a store that carries power tools. Otherwise, you can borrow the equipment that the city owns. There is a tool kit located at any one of the three Glendale Libraries or at the Gateway or Foothills Police Stations. You can borrow the equipment for up to two weeks. Instructions in English and Spanish are provided in the kit.

How do I obtain the decals?
After marking your property with your driver’s license number, contact your CAT Team to get the decal(s). If you used the city’s engraver, you will be issued the decal(s) when you return the equipment. These should be placed in a prominent place (front door, back door, and/or front window). These decals are designed for outside use.

You can be of further assistance to your police department by reporting ANY information you may have of ANY crime or suspected crime. Simply call 9-1-1 if a crime is occurring, (623) 930-3000 (dispatch) to report information. You are helping yourself and your community when you help your police department.