Residents of Aston-on-Trent, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in South Derbyshire with a population of 2155, have several options for reporting crimes. It's important to understand the appropriate channels to use, particularly given Aston-on-Trent's relatively low crime rate of 32.9 per 1,000 residents – significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 – and its impressive safety score of 93/100, which demonstrates a generally safe environment.
Emergency Situations (999): If a crime is currently happening, or someone is in immediate danger, always dial 999. This includes situations involving violence, serious injury, or a crime that is actively unfolding. Provide the operator with as much information as possible, including your location and a description of the incident.
Non-Emergency Situations: For crimes that have already occurred and do not pose an immediate threat, there are several ways to report them:
- Online Reporting: Derbyshire Police provides an online reporting tool on their website (derbyshire.police.uk). This is a convenient way to report a range of crimes, such as theft, criminal damage, or minor assaults. The online form allows you to provide detailed information and upload supporting evidence.
- Non-Emergency Line: You can contact Derbyshire Police on their non-emergency telephone number, 101. This line is for reporting non-urgent crimes and obtaining advice from a police officer. Be prepared to provide details about the incident, including the date, time, and location.
- In Person: While less common, you can visit your local police station to report a crime in person. However, online and telephone reporting are generally preferred for non-emergency situations.
What Information to Provide: Regardless of the method you choose, be prepared to provide the following information:
- Your name and contact details
- The date, time, and location of the crime
- A detailed description of what happened
- Any information about the suspect(s), such as their appearance or vehicle details
- Any evidence you may have, such as photos or videos
By utilising these reporting channels, Aston-on-Trent residents contribute to maintaining the area's high safety score and ensuring that appropriate action is taken regarding any criminal activity.