City or metropolitan police departments typically have jurisdiction within the city limits, while the county sheriff’s department will have jurisdiction over incidents that take place in the county or outside the city limits. There may be dual jurisdiction in some areas, such as if you live in a metro area where city and county governments have been consolidated. In that case, just find the precinct office the shortest distance from you. If you’re in the wrong place, they’ll tell you where to go.
If you took photos or video on your phone, take your phone with you to the police station. The police typically won’t have to confiscate your phone. They can download your photos or video to their computer system. In cases of property loss or damage, gather any financial statements, insurance claims, or other documents to take with you.
If your identification has been lost or stolen, bring whatever documents or information you have that might prove your identity. You also might want to bring a friend or relative along to vouch for you.
Typically you’ll have a shorter wait time if you go earlier in the morning, as opposed to in the afternoon. If you have been the victim of a crime, such as a break-in or assault, you can also call the police and have them come out to you. In addition to collecting your statement, they will gather evidence. Call the station before you go down there to see if they will come to you.
When an officer comes to take your report, give them all of the information you know about the incident. Include as many specific details as you know, but stick to the facts. If you have any documents or other information, let the officer know. They may want to take your originals or make copies. The officer may ask you questions to attempt to get more information about the incident. If you don’t know something or don’t remember, say so. Avoid making assumptions or engaging in speculation.
If all you have is the report number, keep it safe. Depending on the type of incident you report, you may need to provide that number to others. For example, if you filed a report for property damage, you may need to provide the police report number to your insurance company when you file a claim.
If you don’t hear from the police within a week, call the non-emergency number and tell the dispatcher that you want to follow up on a report you filed. Give them your report number, and they’ll connect you to the appropriate officer who can give you an update. You also may learn additional information about the incident after you file your report. If you do, call and ask to speak to the investigating officer. Let them know the additional information.
Once on the website, look for a link that will allow you to file a police report online. Not all police stations will allow you to file a police report online. In that case, you will need to do so in person.
You shouldn’t file an online report for a violent incident or a crime in progress. Call 911 if people’s lives are in danger, or call the police non-emergency number. Incidents involving lost or stolen property, damaged property, or vandalism typically can be reported online. You also can file an online report for financial crimes, including theft or identity theft.
You may want to write down notes with specific facts and details related to the incident, so you don’t have to type in your information off the top of your head. For example, you might write a list of names of others who were involved or who witnessed the incident. You also might make note of the date and time the incident occurred and the street address of the specific location. If you have any documents or other files related to the incident, you may be able to upload them along with your report.
Provide an email address and phone number so police can contact you if they have any questions or need additional information to process your report.
Stick to the facts, including as many specific details as you can remember. Don’t include any description of your feelings, emotional reactions, or speculative thoughts. The field you have to enter details may be limited to a certain number of characters. Include as many details as possible, but be brief. Make every word count.
If you’re not able to print a copy of your report, write down any confirmation number or report number that you’re provided. You may need these to follow up on the report later, or to share with an insurance company.
If you don’t hear from the police department, call the non-emergency number. Let the dispatcher know that you want to follow up on a police report you filed online. Find out the name of the investigating officer, if any, in case you gain new information about the incident and need to update your report.
You typically can find the non-emergency number through an online search, in a telephone book, or by calling 311 (information), if that service is available in your area.
You may be able to file a report anonymously over the phone. However, if you don’t provide your name and contact information, police will not be able to follow up with you about the report. You should always provide your name and contact information if you suffered a loss as a result of the incident you’re reporting, such as if your property was damaged.
If you have any photo or video, or documents related to the incident, let the dispatcher know. They will tell you what you need to do with them. The dispatcher may ask you some questions if there is specific information they need that you failed to mention in your description.
The officer will confirm the information in your telephone report and ask questions to get any additional information they may need to further investigate your report. You may not get a written copy of the report immediately. The officer typically will give you a receipt with the number assigned to your report so you can get a full copy later.
In some cases, the police department may mail a copy of the report to you. Otherwise, you may need to make a trip to the precinct to pick up your copy.
