Reporting a crime in Aylesham, a built-up area in Dover with a population of 7622, follows standard procedures for England. The first step depends on the urgency of the situation. If you are experiencing an emergency or witnessing a crime in progress, always call 999. This includes situations involving immediate danger to life or property.
For non-emergency incidents, there are several avenues for reporting. Kent Police offers an online reporting tool accessible through their website. This is often the quickest and most convenient method for reporting crimes such as theft, vandalism, or minor assaults where no one is in immediate danger. Alternatively, you can contact the non-emergency telephone number, 101. This number is for reporting crimes that have already occurred, obtaining crime prevention advice, or providing information about a crime.
Understanding Aylesham's crime statistics provides useful context. With a crime rate of 57.1 per 1,000 residents, it sits considerably lower than the UK average of 91.6. This suggests Aylesham is a relatively safe area. However, reporting all crimes, regardless of perceived severity, is crucial for accurate data collection and effective policing. The safety score of 88/100 further reinforces Aylesham's relative safety compared to the national average.
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; and any details about the perpetrator or any witnesses. Having photographs or videos can also be helpful. Remember to keep a record of your reference number if you report the crime by phone or online. This allows you to track the progress of your report and contact the police for updates. It's important to note that the police will assess each report and determine the appropriate course of action based on the severity of the crime and available resources.