In short, NO WE ARE NOT! This is why…
Pawn and Buy Process
Every time we take in an item, whether we are purchasing the item or processing a collateral loan (pawn), these are the steps we take to prevent obtaining stolen goods.
The individual selling an item or obtaining a loan must provide a valid ID at the point of the transaction. Our pawn system records all data from their driver’s license. This includes full name, birthdate, address and biometric description. In addition, a photo of the individual and valid phone number is recorded. At the end of the transaction the individual must provide a signature and thumb print to prevent the use of false identification cards.
What happens to all of that data? At the end of each business day, we transmit a copy of the data along with a photo and description of each item to the San Bernardino County Sherriff’s office. The information is then compared to police reports of stolen property.
All evidence to the contrary, most thieves are not dumb and they are aware of this process. The process alone is a major deterrent, as the perpetrators know they are taking a risk when selling to a pawnshop.
Is it a perfect system?
Absolutely not. Unfortunately there are stolen items that make it through our doors and never find their way back to their original owner.
What can you do?
FILE A POLICE REPORT if you are ever a victim of theft. We are not allowed to share information with you regarding stolen property without a police report.
PRESS CHARGES on the individual if you find your stolen property in a pawnshop. We have the data – use it.
How long do you have before your stolen items are possibly sold?
This depends on the type of transaction processed. Everything we purchase is stored for 30 days before it hits the sales floor. This provides time for victims to file police reports and track down their stolen property. If the transaction was a loan, we store the item for up to 4 months before it goes to the sales floor. The best thing you can do is act fast.
CONTROVERSY! How do you reclaim your stolen property?
After you file a police report, identify your property and press charges; you are able to purchase your property back from the pawnshop at the value the shop paid for it.
“THAT’S NOT FAIR! I should not have to pay for my stuff.” You are right; it’s not fair for anyone. Before you get too worked up, imagine this scenario – it used to happen all the time.
“Con man” sells the shop “stolen” goods and receives money. “Uncle Con Man” comes in and says the items are his and identifies them. Police officer tells the shop to return the “stolen” items to “Uncle Con Man” as they are clearly his. “Con Man” and “Uncle Con Man” split the money we gave them AND get their stuff back. No one goes to jail and the pawnshop loses money.
Although it is not an optimal process for anyone, pawnshops buy items for a fraction of their actual value, so you will get them back cheaper than replacing them and the pawnshop will recoup its money to help those that really need it.
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