Report Suspicious Activity and Crime

If you see a crime being committed, report it immediately and accurately. If you are a victim of crime, report as soon as possible. Even a five minute delay in reporting can significantly reduce the chance of catching the criminal.

Don’t hestitate to call if you think something may be wrong. Don’t worry about being embarrassed if your suspicions turn out to be unfounded. Think what could happen if you don’t act.

Some examples of suspicious activities are: someone running from a car or home; someone screaming; someone wandering through the neighborhood who seems to have no purpose; suspicious noises; business transactions conducted from a vehicle; offers of merchandise for a ridiculously low price; strangers carrying property; a stranger entering a neighbors home in an unusual manner; a stranger in a car beckoning a child; a child resisting an adult; abandoned vehicles; persons attempting to forcibly enter a locked vehicle; a burglar alarm sounding.

As soon as you can, write down everything you can remember. Don’t rely on your memory. It’s easy to mix up details. Be exact as you can and try to avoid guessing. Wrong information is worse than no information at all. Keep the descriptions handy, where you can find it when needed.

When reporting a suspicious activity, call 9-1-1. Then describe the event as briefly as possible and allow the dispatcher to ask questions and direct the conversation. Don’t hang up until directed to do so by the dispatcher.

Law enforcement cannot overcome crime without the support of citizens individually and as a community. When you help the Police Department you are also helping yourself to keep from being a victim of crime. It’s a community responsibility.