If you’ve witnessed or been a victim of a non-emergency crime in Chichester, it’s important to report it. The method you choose depends on the nature of the incident. This guide explains how to do so, providing context based on the area's crime statistics.
Chichester has a crime rate of 78.5 per 1,000 residents. This is lower than the UK average of 91.6, indicating a generally safer environment. However, reporting all incidents, even minor ones, is vital for maintaining this positive trend and allowing Sussex Police to allocate resources effectively.
How to Report a Non-Emergency Crime:
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Online Reporting: For many non-emergency crimes, such as theft of a bicycle (where no suspect is present) or minor property damage, the easiest and quickest way to report is through the Sussex Police website. You can access the online reporting tool at https://www.sussex.police.uk/report-a-crime/. This allows you to provide details at your convenience and reduces the strain on phone lines.
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Calling 101: The 101 number is the non-emergency telephone number for Sussex Police. It's available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Use 101 to report crimes that don't require an immediate response, such as suspicious activity, lost property, or crimes that have already occurred. Be prepared to provide as much detail as possible to the operator.
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When to Call 999: Remember, 999 is for emergencies only - situations where a crime is happening now, someone is injured, or there’s a threat to life. Do not use 999 for non-emergency matters.
Understanding Chichester’s safety score of 83/100 (compared to a UK average of 79) highlights the area’s relative safety. However, proactive reporting is crucial to maintaining and improving this score. Reporting even seemingly minor incidents helps police identify patterns and allocate resources effectively, contributing to the overall safety of the community. Remember that every report is valuable and contributes to a more informed and safer Chichester.