redge Posted August 30, 2006 Report Share Posted August 30, 2006 David Terry's loss prompts me to mention something that has not really come up here or on ramps. An employee of a reputable sales/rental house in New York told me a few months ago that there are people who are targetting camera, lighting and sound gear. According to this gentleman, the theives know what is in production and they are casing security. He also told me that this is happening because there is a ready market, within the film community, for stolen gear. Apparently this is true even for gear produced in small numbers, and documented through serial numbers, such as motion picture cameras. If true, this means is that in some cities there are knowledgeable people engaged in theft, who are either employed in the industry themselves or who know people who are prepared to buy cameras and other equipment, no questions asked. The buyers are probably paying a small fraction of what the gear is worth. The owners on the larger productions, whether a rental house or individuals, are insured. The net result is higher insurance rates for everybody. Maybe the solution is an internet database in which people can register gear that has serial numbers, which would enable buyers to do a quick check before buying. Or at the least (maybe it already exists), a database in which people can list serial numbers of gear that has been stolen. Cheers, Rory PS for David: Some months ago, we had an e-mail exchange. You are a decent man. As someone who has also experienced theft, although not on this scale, I understand a little of the devestation, and probably anger, that you are experiencing. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
David Terry Posted August 30, 2006 Report Share Posted August 30, 2006 Rory, I am surprised to find that I have almost zero anger. I am touched by the kindness of people in our business, extremely disappointed in my own carelessness, and quite determined to come back with improved equipment, business skill, and a renewed appreciation of my craft. Thank you for your kind words. More on topic...A database for stolen gear should be welcomed by our industry. Computers are everywhere. Let's use them. I regret that I did not keep records of my equipment info on my home network. David Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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