Reporting crime in New Brancepeth, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within County Durham, follows standard procedures for England. The process depends on the urgency of the situation.
Emergency Situations: If a crime is in progress, or someone is in immediate danger, dial 999. This is for situations requiring urgent police intervention.
Non-Emergency Situations: For crimes that are not happening immediately and do not involve an immediate threat to life, dial 101. This is the non-emergency number for the police. You can also report crimes online through the Durham Constabulary website (www.durham.police.uk).
Online Reporting: The online reporting system is a convenient option for less serious crimes, such as theft where no suspect is present, minor damage to property, or online scams. It allows you to provide details at your convenience.
Contextualising Crime Rates: New Brancepeth has a crime rate of 54.5 per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the national average of 91.6 per 1,000, indicating a generally safer environment. The area’s safety score of 86/100 further reinforces this perception. Reporting all incidents, even seemingly minor ones, is vital for maintaining this positive trend and allowing the police to accurately assess and address local crime patterns. Consistent reporting helps ensure resources are allocated effectively and preventative measures can be implemented where needed.
What Information to Provide: When reporting a crime, be prepared to provide as much detail as possible, including:
- The date, time, and location of the incident.
- A description of what happened.
- Descriptions of any people involved.
- Any property that was stolen or damaged.
- Any relevant evidence or witness information.
After Reporting: Following a report, you may receive a reference number. Keep this for your records. Police may contact you for further information or to update you on the investigation's progress.