Secure it or risk losing it Published Dec. 31, 2007 By Staff Sgt. Tammie Moore 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Vehicles in the Speicher government leased housing area have been the target of a number of break ins recently with stolen items ranging from CDs and sunglasses to more expensive items like global positioning systems and mp3 players. "We are very concerned because of the rise in thefts from vehicles in government leased housing areas," said Col. Darryl Roberson, 52nd Fighter Wing commander. "It is important for everyone to exercise personal security by locking your cars, securing your possessions and not leaving valuable items unattended in vehicles." To help protect from vehicle theft, Sabers should lock their cars whenever they are left unattended, which is required by German law. Failure to do so can cause insurance rates to increase for victims of larceny. Also, when the base is in Force Protection Condition Bravo, personnel are required to lock their parked vehicles. In November there were five reported cases of larceny, all of which occurred off base, said Danielle Grant, 52nd Security Forces Squadron reports and analysis. Three of these larcenies involved vehicles that were broken into in government leased housing. These thefts may have been avoided if people locked their doors and removed their valuables from their vehicles. Victims of larceny should do a thorough check of the area and make of list of all stolen items, then contact security forces and/or the Polizei to file a report, Ms. Grant said. Individuals who have renter's or home owner's insurance might be entitled to a reimbursement, if they have the proper reports filed. When the evidence shows that an Airman committed larceny, they are most likely to be charged under Article 121 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice. The possible actions for a violation of Article 121 can range from a letter of reprimand to an Article 15 or court martial, said Capt. Gregory Gardner, 52nd Fighter Wing assistant staff judge advocate. The action taken and punishments are determined on a case-by-case basis, considering the situation and the value of the items involved. The Airman's commander works with the legal office to determine how to handle the incident and has the final say in what action will be taken. Military dependents who commit larceny are also held accountable for their actions, even though they cannot be prosecuted under the military justice system. If a dependent is caught, people should contact Security Forces, which will contact the Polizei because they have the authority to prosecute the individual even if the incident occurs on base, Captain Gardner said. All dependents, adults and minors caught committing larceny acts go before a Dependent Misconduct Hearing chaired by the 52nd Mission Support Group vice commander who can impose punishments such as community service, bar the offender from a facility or even bar them from the base. "Sabers should ensure they are securing their personal items to help decrease their risk of becoming a victim," Colonel Roberson said. "Taking a few moments each time you park your vehicle to remove value items is the smart thing to do. Don't take risks with expensive items by leaving them in plain view in your vehicle." Individuals who have been the victim of theft or have information about the break ins should call the law enforcement desk at 06565-61-6666.