Soldiers should be aware that in 2009 there were over 300 reported barracks thefts last year, with most occurring in the IET units. During several investigations it was determined that many thefts go unreported or only get reported once the police have been called to the unit. Several thefts were the result of people leaving their property unsecured. They left cell phones lying on bunks, IPods in open wall lockers, even computers left for a moment on a bench outside the barracks. These electronic devices were the items of choice, accounting for over 95% of all items taken.

Many of these items were secured in individuals’ wall lockers, but they left their keys in boots, under pillows, or hanging on their dog tag chains while they showered. Essentially they left their property unsecured. Soldiers also used inferior (cheap) locks to secure their wall locker, such as combination locks and small padlocks. They also secured high value items in their bunk drawers, which are easily defeated and offer little if no security for your property. Others have been assigned to wall lockers that were previously damaged due to Soldiers either tearing them apart while enraged or in a previous theft.

Many Soldiers wonder, what can I do to keep my property safe? First, while stationed here for initial training, don’t purchase large expensive electronic items you cannot secure in your three drawer chest. Would be thieves look for these items being used by Soldiers and target them to be stolen. Invest in two high grade locks; place one on the locker door and the other on the secured drawer of the three drawer chest. Lock all high value items in the three drawer chest and only the three drawer chest. Keep your keys on your person at all times. If your locker is broken and easily opened, see if you can use the drawer of a trusted friend. Do not place any high value items in the bunk drawers, you are just asking for them to be stolen.

Lastly all Soldiers should understand a barracks thief is not someone who is living up to the Army values. He does not value honesty or integrity. Many Soldiers feel they cannot “rat” out a fellow Soldier, but a thief is not a Soldier. He is not a battle buddy; he is not your friend. He is a criminal, someone you cannot trust to be there in battle. If he will steal your stuff here, then they will leave you when the pressure mounts. So when the police start to ask questions about who may have done this, who is a known thief, did you hear anything or see anything, speak up. This person is the one living the Army values and is to be admired and rewarded. You can remain anonymous, just tell the investigators.

Here are some criminal statics for the Jan.1, 2010 to Feb. 28, 2010 time period:

Speeding (319) citations Traffic Accidents (37) reports Cell Phone (102) citations Seatbelt (24) citations DUI/DWI (19) reports Assaults (35) reports Larceny to Private Property (41) reports Shoplifting (6) report