Here's the deal. The more the police have to work with, the more likely it is that your gear will be found and recovered. But this is no guarantee. Some people are very good at what they do in their criminal enterprises. If they know you have gear, because some blabber mouthed idiot mentioned it, they may also know people who will pay top dollar for it. And those people generally are private individuals in the hunt for such gear, and also less likely to ever 'resell' it until twenty years or more have passed, and the value has skyrocketed.

Okay, here's the list:

• A musician in Vancouver, BC, Canada is still dealing with losing gear to a rip off. Here is the URL to see what's missing so you can keep your eyes peeled for it and report it if you do see or come across any of it.
• Here's the URL to see pictures and descriptions. http://www.stolen53lespaul.com/Equipment/Home.html

We must be willing to help our fellow musicians to recover anything lost or stolen by creeps who could care less about you. They only see money, or drugs, as the final end of their enterprise. And if they are not stopped, some other person will suffer, too.

We are the front line of defence against theft. Be vigilant, never let your gear out of the sight of a trusted associate or Roadie - ever. That is the one time most bands are the most vulnerable, during "load out", after the gig when everyone is tired. Always have someone with "eyes on", at the stage and at the truck. If you do this simple thing, you will be less likely to be ripped off at the gig.

Home invasion is another kettle of fish. Alarm systems and insurance are your only real protections. But if you go away on a road trip or vacation, make sure you have someone who can live in the house during your absence, like a trusted room mate or family member or close, close friend. This will decrease the likelihood of losing your precious and hard earned gear.