Reporting crime in East Wittering, Chichester, follows standard procedures for England. The process depends on the nature of the crime and your comfort level.
Online Reporting: The most convenient method for many crimes is through the Sussex Police website (sussex.police.uk). This is suitable for non-emergency incidents such as theft of property where no suspect is present, minor criminal damage, or online fraud. The online form guides you through the necessary information.
Telephone Reporting: For incidents that require immediate attention but don't constitute an emergency, dial 101. This is the non-emergency number for Sussex Police. It's appropriate for reporting crimes that have already occurred or for providing information about a crime you've witnessed. Avoid calling 101 for emergencies.
In-Person Reporting: You can visit your local police station to report a crime in person. This is particularly useful if you need to provide physical evidence or require assistance completing a report. While East Wittering doesn't have its own police station, the nearest station will be in Chichester.
Understanding East Wittering’s Crime Context: East Wittering, a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 6948, exhibits a crime rate of 61.4 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the national average of 91.6 per 1,000. Furthermore, East Wittering boasts a safety score of 87 out of 100, significantly higher than the UK average of 79. This suggests a relatively safe environment. However, reporting any crime, regardless of severity, is important to maintain this positive trend and assist the police in identifying and addressing potential issues.
What to Expect When Reporting: Be prepared to provide as much detail as possible, including the date, time, and location of the incident, a description of what happened, and any details about potential suspects or witnesses. Retain any relevant evidence, such as photographs or documents. The police will assess the information and determine the appropriate course of action, which may include investigation, referral to another agency, or providing crime prevention advice.