There are a number of ways to report a crime:

Reporting a non-emergency
If you have information about past or ongoing criminal activity that is not an emergency, you are encouraged to call your local police department through their non-emergency phone number. Remember, if it is not an emergency, do not call 911. This does not mean the crime is not important – it just helps the police to make the best use of their resources.

Examples of non-emergency calls

• Reporting a crime with no suspect
• Reporting a crime with a suspect, but the suspect is not on the scene
• Non-emergency in progress (noisy party, drug use, etc.)
• Ongoing crime issues (graffiti, ongoing drug dealing, etc.)

When you should call 911?
Call 911 when there is an emergency and lives are in danger. You should also call 911 when there is serious injury, a serious medical condition, a crime is in progress, or any other situation requiring immediate attention.
What should you do if you see a crime occurring?

• Call 911 immediately.
• Know the address of where you are or the crime was committed.
• Be observant and make mental notes to answer questions clearly.
• What are the person’s physical characteristics such as height, weight, race, beard or scars.
• Try to remember clothing descriptions.
• Note how many people are involved.
• Make sure you tell the police if the persons involved are on foot or in a vehicle.
• If possible, what is the make and model of the vehicle?

Updated: January 2020.