How to Get Stolen Stuff Back
- 1). File a police report. Always file a police report so that the police will take this seriously and help you obtain your items.
- 2). Gather the serial numbers of electronics and photographs of valuables so you can identify your items to the police and prove they are yours. Proof is an important step of getting your belongings back. If you don't have serial numbers or photos, report it anyway, and remember in the future to take pictures of valuables to ensure a smooth process if anything is ever stolen again.
- 3). Check local pawn shops and online classifieds, such as Craigslist and eBay. Thieves regularly post their stolen goods on these sites to get rid of them quickly. Check for a description of any items that match yours. Email or print out the listing and take that information to the police.
- 4). Proceed with legal action. The person or people who took your items may deny the charges and a court case will follow. If your items are at a pawn shop, you will probably have to go to court before they will give you the items back, as the owner will be looking for restitution for the items he paid for.