Reporting a crime in Middlesbrough can be done through several channels, and understanding the best approach depends on the urgency and nature of the incident. The most appropriate method hinges on whether the crime is in progress or a past occurrence.
For Emergencies (Crime in Progress): If a crime is happening right now, posing an immediate threat to life or property, always call 999. This includes situations like robberies, assaults, or any incident where someone is in danger. The police will respond immediately.
For Non-Emergencies: If the crime has already happened and doesn't require an immediate response, you have several options. The most efficient method is often to utilise the online reporting system available on the Cleveland Police website. This allows you to provide details of the incident at your convenience. Alternatively, you can call the non-emergency number, 101. This number is for reporting crimes that don't require an urgent police response, such as theft, vandalism, or suspicious activity.
Contextualising Middlesbrough's Crime Rate: It’s important to understand the context of reporting within Middlesbrough. With a crime rate of 182.2 per 1,000 residents, Middlesbrough's crime rate is significantly higher than the UK average of 91.6. This highlights the importance of reporting all incidents to help police understand trends and allocate resources effectively. The area’s safety score of 59/100, also below the UK average of 79, reinforces this point. Reporting crimes, even seemingly minor ones, contributes to a more accurate picture of the safety landscape and supports preventative measures.
What Information to Provide: When reporting a crime, whether online or by phone, provide as much detail as possible. This includes the date, time, and location of the incident, a description of what happened, and any details about the suspect(s) involved. Having this information readily available will help the police investigate efficiently. Remember that the population of Middlesbrough is 156,161, so every report contributes to the overall understanding of crime trends within the area.
Online Reporting: The online reporting system is user-friendly and allows you to upload photographs or videos if relevant. You will receive a reference number confirming your report has been received.