Reporting a crime in Adur is crucial for maintaining community safety. The process depends on the urgency and nature of the incident. This guide outlines the various ways you can report a crime, taking into account Adur’s specific context.
When to Call 999:
If a crime is currently happening, someone is in danger, or a life is at risk, always dial 999. This includes situations like a burglary in progress, an assault, or a serious road traffic collision.
Reporting Non-Emergency Crimes:
For crimes that are not an immediate emergency, you have several options:
- Online Reporting: The most convenient method for many non-emergency incidents is through the Sussex Police website (https://www.sussex.police.uk/report-a-crime/). This is suitable for crimes like theft (where the offender is not present), damage to property, or minor fraud.
- Non-Emergency Police Line: You can call the non-emergency police line on 101. This is a good option if you prefer speaking to someone directly or have limited internet access.
Understanding Adur’s Crime Landscape:
Adur has a population of 64,889 residents. The crime rate in Adur stands at 71.6 incidents per 1,000 people. This is lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. While this suggests a relatively safe area, reporting all crimes remains important for effective policing and resource allocation. Adur also boasts a safety score of 85/100, exceeding the UK average of 79, indicating a generally safe environment. However, it's vital to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
What Information to Provide:
When reporting a crime, regardless of the method, provide as much detail as possible. This includes:
- Date and time of the incident
- Location of the incident
- Description of the offender(s) (if known)
- Description of any property involved
- Your contact details
Providing accurate and comprehensive information significantly aids the police in their investigation and increases the likelihood of a successful resolution. Keep a record of your reference number after reporting, as this will be useful for follow-up inquiries.