Here are four easy steps to prevent thieves from taking your stuff

By Jake Burns
VCU Police

The No. 1 crime reported to VCU Police is typically 100 percent preventable: personal property theft. As Virginia Commonwealth University students return for the 2026-27 school year, VCU Police highlight a few easy actions that can greatly reduce the likelihood of their belongings being stolen.

"Most people are not thinking about theft before it happens, which is why taking preventative measures all the time is so critical," said Det. Caine Green, who routinely works larceny cases.

VCU Police received more than 300 reports of larceny during the last academic year. Stolen items included backpacks, handheld electronic devices, laptops, bikes, scooters and clothing.

How to protect personal property

Vigilance is crucial, VCU Police said. Whether someone is studying in the library and steps away to grab food, or rushing from a parking deck to get to class, forgetfulness is often a common denominator that creates a criminal opportunity.

Thieves require means, motive and opportunity, so community members can help eliminate the first and third of those factors by taking simple precautions:

• Never leave items unattended: Always take your items with you, even if you are leaving your space or area for just a moment.
• Do not ask someone else to watch your items: Your friend, classmate or otherwise inherently will not pay as close attention as you would.
• Remain aware of your surroundings: Your focus - or lack thereof - can open the door for someone to take your things without you noticing. Be aware of the volume of your headphones and what else you can hear.
• Lock up, if possible: Commuters should lock items inside their vehicle, out of sight. Bike/scooter owners should secure their vehicle using a U-lock. Gym users should secure items inside a locker.

What should I do if someone took my stuff?

There are multiple ways to contact VCU Police. Call the nonemergency number 804-828-1196, report the incident online, or use the VCU LiveSafe app.

Provide a detailed description of the items taken, including the time and location you last had them in your possession.

The most important step is to report the theft, Green said.

"For some people, property crimes like this might not seem like a big deal. But if a student's laptop is taken, that is a major impact to their life from an academic and personal perspective," Green said. "We would always rather take the report than never hear about it."

What security measures does VCU have to prevent theft?

VCU's system of passively monitored security cameras are strategically placed across both campuses to cover high-traffic areas. A detailed report plus camera footage can result in positive outcomes.

Green recalls a case he worked where multiple victims had items taken from unsecured lockers at the Cary Street Gym. Video of the incident allowed officers to quickly identify a person of interest and a vehicle description. Later that day, Green found the person using a laptop, which had been taken from the gym, at a different location on campus.

Students also should register their computers or other electronic devices with VCU Police. The process is simple, and doing so makes the recovery process easier.

Similarly, bike and scooter owners are encouraged to register their vehicle if they plan to leave them parked on campus. Those who register receive a free metal U-lock from VCU Police to help deter theft.