The best way to report a crime in Ashburton, Teignbridge, depends on the urgency and nature of the incident. It's important to understand the options available to ensure your report is handled appropriately.
For Emergencies (Immediate Threat): If a crime is happening right now, or someone is in immediate danger, always call 999. This includes situations like a burglary in progress, an assault, or any other crime posing an immediate threat to life or property. The police will dispatch officers to the scene as quickly as possible.
For Non-Emergency Incidents: For crimes that have already occurred and do not pose an immediate threat, there are several ways to report them.
- Online Reporting: Devon and Cornwall Police offer an online reporting tool through their website (https://www.devonandcornwall.police.uk/). This is a convenient option for reporting crimes like theft, criminal damage, or minor fraud where no one is injured and there is no immediate danger.
- Non-Emergency Phone Number: You can also call the non-emergency number, 101. This is suitable for reporting crimes that have already happened and don't require an immediate response, such as a past theft or a suspicious incident.
- In Person: While less common, you can visit a local police station to report a crime in person.
Understanding Ashburton’s Context: Ashburton, within the BUA of Teignbridge, has a population of 3517. Its crime rate stands at 41.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This indicates a relatively lower crime risk compared to the national average. Ashburton also boasts a safety score of 89/100, exceeding the UK average of 79, suggesting a perception of higher safety within the community. However, regardless of the statistics, it remains vital to report any suspicious activity or criminal incidents to the authorities.
Important Considerations: When reporting a crime, be prepared to provide as much detail as possible, including the date, time, location, description of the incident, and any potential suspects. Having this information readily available will help the police investigate the matter effectively.