Thursday 31st March 2011
What should I do if I witness a crime?
If you see a crime or offence being committed report it - or ask someone else to report it while you continue to watch what happens.
Dial 119 if:
- there is a risk of serious injury;
- a crime is in progress or about to happen;
- an offender is still at the scene or has just left
What will the police want to know?
The police will normally want to know the following information:
-Your name and address-The telephone number you are calling from
-A main contact number (mobile or home number)
-The exact location of the incident you are reporting
-The nature of the incident
- Descriptions of the people involved
-Whether you are a witness to the incident or reporting it on behalf of someone else
If you are still watching the incident, you may be asked to stay on the line. If you are reporting a road accident you may also be asked:
-The number and type of any vehicles involved-The number and extent of injuries
-Whether the road is blocked
-Whether there is debris in the road.