Hamilton Police working to identify recovered property and return it to its owners say their work unmasking burglars would be that much easier if people recorded serial numbers of their valuables.
Acting Sergeant Nick Rolley of the City's Tactical Crime Unit said officers had recently recovered dozens of tools worth several thousand dollars.
"We believe these tools have been taken during a number of burglaries over recent months but the challenge faced by Police is, if we can't prove the items are stolen we have to give them back which is frustrating not only for investigators but the victims as well.
"By recording serial numbers and having them available to give to Police, if you become the victim of a burglary we can marry up your data with property found at addresses and not only return them to you but prove the person found with your valuables came by them unlawfully."
Mr Rolley said as offenders became more forensically aware serial numbers and images of valuables became force multipliers in the fight against crime.
"By photographing and recording the serial number of your i-pad, large screen television, quad bike, stereo, tools, jewellery or firearm on databases such as on the SNAP website (www.snap.org.nz) you allow Police investigating burglaries to take the front foot.
"Another step to protect your property is using synthetic DNA to invisibly mark your items. That way while offenders may wear gloves or balaclavas to mask their identity they can't hide the fact that the item in their possession can be proven as not theirs and be held to account before the courts."
Simple steps as the two highlighted by Mr Rolley make things uncomfortable not only for burglars but receivers as well, the people thieves take your valuables to for cash, drugs or both.
"The knowledge that there is a greater likelihood they will be caught with stolen goods makes receivers uncomfortable, in essence your property becomes too hot to handle.
"It's about changing the environment to your, not the burglar's, favour so SNAP to it and record the serial numbers and photograph your valuables, it could make all the difference."
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