Don’t Buy Crime is an initiative of the Burglar Beware Program, helping people to identify whether something is stolen and reminding them that buying stolen goods is a crime.
Before buying goods that ‘fell off the back of a truck’, people should consider the consequences. Stolen goods can often be sold to fund drug habits and it can encourage burglars to steal more – increasing the chances that your home could be next.
The law considers those who buy stolen goods are just as responsible for the crime as the thief.
Identifying stolen goods
Those people considering a purchase should ensure that the product is in its original packaging and that they know and trust the vendor.
If the circumstances around how a purchase is made (for example, out of a car boot or in a car park) are unusual people should ask the seller for a receipt or proof of ownership and check there are no markings, serial numbers or engravings from previous owners.
Prevention
Marked property can prevent theft and is easier for the police to track. It also allows people to identify their goods if stolen and makes it harder for criminals to sell.
The best way to mark property is to engrave your driver’s license number onto it or use Micro Dots, which are laser-etched with owner details. It is also a good idea to record serial numbers and photograph your property to make it easier for police to recover.
Being offered stolen goods
For advice on how best to handle the situation if you suspect the property on offer is stolen, call the police on 131 444.
If you have any information about people dealing in stolen property, call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. 
