If you witness a crime in Cornwall, the most important thing is your safety. The immediate steps you take will depend on the situation, but prioritising your wellbeing is crucial.
Cornwall, with a population of 583,289, currently has a crime rate of 73.4 incidents per 1,000 people. While this is lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, witnessing a crime can still be a distressing experience. Cornwall also boasts a safety score of 82/100, indicating a generally safe environment compared to the UK average of 79.
Here's what you should do:
- Ensure Your Safety: Do not intervene if you feel unsafe or the situation is escalating. Your personal safety is the priority.
- Call the Police Immediately: Dial 999 if it's an emergency, such as a crime in progress, or 101 for non-urgent incidents. Provide the operator with as much detail as possible, including the location, what you saw, and any descriptions of individuals involved.
- Provide Accurate Details: When speaking to the police, be as clear and concise as possible. Avoid speculation and stick to what you directly observed. Note down details like the time, location, and descriptions of individuals and vehicles.
- Do Not Approach Suspects: Do not attempt to apprehend or confront any suspects. This could put you at risk and potentially compromise any investigation.
- Be Prepared to Give a Statement: The police may ask you to provide a formal statement. It's important to be honest and accurate in your account.
- Consider Reporting Anonymously: If you are concerned about your safety or wish to remain anonymous, you may be able to report information through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Remember, your contribution, even as a witness, helps the police in Cornwall maintain the area's relatively low crime rate and high safety score. Reporting incidents, regardless of their perceived severity, assists in preventing future crime and ensuring the safety of the community.