Operation Identification

Operation Identification (Operation ID) is a citizen's burglary prevention program for use in homes and businesses. The Operation ID program involves permanently marking and registering valuable property with an identifying number as a means of discouraging burglary and theft. It also provides police with a way to identify property should it be stolen and recovered.

First, mark your valuables with an identification number issued by the Brainerd Police Department so your property can be easily traced and identified as yours. The Brainerd Police Department will issue an Operation ID Identification number that can be used to identify the property marked from anywhere in the country.

Second, display a decal which tells would-be thieves that your property has been marked.
Operation ID

Why Operation ID Is so Effective


The program has 4 major advantages regarding property marked in accordance with the program guides:
  • Deters Crime; thieves and burglars are less likely to steal an item that can be positively identified and that will be difficult to sell.
  • Positive Identification; The owner of stolen or lost property can easily be located through existing records.
  • Helps Criminal Prosecution; the arresting officers can more readily use the stolen property in pursuing the case through the courts.
  • Aids Recovery; Stolen and/or lost property is more likely to be returned to the owner.

How to Participate


An electric engraving tool and decals are available at the Brainerd Police Department. Be sure to use all of the letters and numbers assigned to you when marking your property. Mark anything of value that can be marked. Engrave in two locations - one that can easily be seen and one that cannot easily be seen.

The items listed below are those most commonly stolen from homes, cars, and businesses:
  • Bicycles
  • Binoculars and other optics
  • Camcorders and cameras
  • Car audio systems
  • Computer equipment
  • Gaming systems
  • Guns
  • Jewelry and watches
  • Household appliances
  • Lawn mowers and snow blowers
  • MP3 players
  • Musical instruments
  • Outboard motors
  • Stereo equipment
  • Sporting goods
  • Tools (hand/power) and Equipment
  • Televisions, VCRs, DVD players, etc.
If an item is an heirloom or would lose its value if marked with an engraver then do not engrave it! Follow the same procedure you would to have that item insured. Photograph or videotape items and keep the photos/tape in a fireproof safe or safety deposit box, along with a written description of the items. Jewelry should be photographed with an ID card and ruler next to it to show ownership and size.

Valuable Property Inventory Record


The Valuable Property Inventory Record is also available to assist you. After marking your property, make a list of the valuables and keep a copy of the list in a safe place. If you should become a burglary victim, you will be able to quickly describe the stolen property from the list. This will be of great help to police in their attempts to recover stolen possessions.